Are Fats Bad For me?

Fats tend to get a lot of bad press because they are the most calorie dense nutrient consisting of 9 calories per gram as opposed to 4 calories per gram like protein & carbs.

But fats are essential for numerous functions in your body:

• Sex hormone production
• Allow nutrients in & out of cells easier
• Fats can also be broken down to an energy source

  If fats in your diet are too low it can cause:

• A reduction in metabolism
• A reduction in the immune system
• The lowering of androgens (sex hormones) responsible for sexual & reproductive function. This can also affect your hair, bone & muscular development
• The lowering of progestogens. These help regulate menstruation & the gestation hormones. It also assists in the formation of new bone, regulation of blood pressure & fat storage.

  There are three basic types of fat:

• Saturated Fats
• Monounsaturated Fats
• Polyunsaturated Fats

  The consumption of polyunsaturated fats is recommended over saturated fats. This isn’t to say saturated fats are bad because saturated fats provide the good cholesterol that the body needs. It just means the ratio of unsaturated fats to saturated fats is more beneficial.

The general recommended amount for fats is about 20-30% of total caloric intake.

Thanks for reading