Much Smarter in Regards to Fats
In order to be healthy we need healthy fats. We’ve gotten SMARTER in recent years.
In fact Harvard is saying “dozens of studies have found that low-fat diets are no better for health than moderate-or high-fat diets—and for many people, they may be worse.”
As an athlete, healthy fat is a MUST. Men and women alike can suffer serious issues, like in the area of hormones, if healthy fats are not regularly consumed. Understanding that fat is the main fuel for the endurance athlete is important. Research is showing that chronic diseases are lower in fat-fit athletes.
The Quick Skinny
Olive oil: This oil has been so highly research. Let’s leave it at its seriously good for you. It’s a rich monounsaturated fatty acids. The cardiovascular benefits have been shown to be outstanding. Cook with it, add it to your smoothies, use it as salad dressing.
Coconut oil: The lauric acid in coconut oil may help improve your ratio of good to bad cholesterol. Select virgin or raw options. You can add to smoothies, good with it, put it in your coffee.
Grapeseed oil: Polyunsaturated fatty acids have been shown to lower total cholesterol. Cook with it as you would olive oil. It’s also makes a smooth base for salad dressings.
Pumpkin seed oil: Contains a blend of vitamins, such as A and E and antioxidants that can reduce free radicals and protect skin from UV damage.
Walnut oil: A great source of the omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid, and has been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. It has a warm nutty flavor making it excellent for salad dressings or in soups.
Happy eating!
