Contrary to popular belief, fat is one of the essential food groups to eat when you want to lose weight. According to FitnessMagazine.com, your body needs fats to function properly. Additionally, fats contain vitamins A, D and E, which are vital for your nervous system. The key is to eat the right kind of fats, and the right amounts. Twenty-five to 30 percent of your daily calories should come from fat, but opt for healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
Almonds
The protein in almonds helps build muscle and reduce cravings, the fiber helps with digestion, while the monounsaturated fat works to prevent obesity, heart disease, wrinkles, cancer and high blood pressure. The World's Healthiest Foods website says almonds have the same healthy fats as olive oil.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is a high-fat food that fits in a healthy eating plan. Peanut butter is filling and satisfying; the creamy texture makes it a welcome treat. The key with peanut butter is to watch your serving size and limit your consumption to 1 or 2 tbsp. a day. Choose a brand that does not contain unhealthy trans fats or high fructose corn syrup. Peanut butter helps build muscle, which burns fat. It also prevents against obesity, wrinkles and cardiovascular disease.
Olive Oil
GlobalHealingCenter.com reports that olive oil is a monounsaturated fat that protects against bad cholesterol, boosts the immune system, helps with digestion and balances the fatty acids in your body. Olive oil also contains antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients, which help fight obesity, cancer, heart disease and high blood pressure. To add olive oil to your diet try using it when cooking, sauteing or grilling vegetables or making homemade vinaigrette salad dressing.
Avocados
Along with high fiber content, the monounsaturated fat in avocados can help lower cholesterol and prevent against heart disease. Avocados are also high in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and prevent stroke. Avocados are also high in folate, another heart-healthy nutrient. Along with heart disease, folate helps prevent irritability, mental fatigue and confusion, depression, insomnia, muscular fatigue and periodontal disease.
Member Comments