Fat doesn’t make you fat..

Fat doesn’t make you fat..


By: FTG Trainer Lindsey Cusey

Many people these days still believe the myth that the fat you eat turns into fat on your body. Of course, It sounds like it would be true but it is quite a contradiction. Actually fat is a dense, excellent source of energy and is essential for the proper functioning of the body. In reality it can help you lose weight by minimizing cravings and decreasing hunger. Fat slows down digestion, and makes you feel full. That is why it is good to have some source of fat in every meal… yes I said “every meal”. If you are eating a healthy diet full of nutrient dense foods, such as lean meats and wholesome fruits and vegetables, it is a good idea to also include a healthy amount of fat into your meals. Some examples of good fat sources are: Macadamia nuts, avocado, avocado oil, hazelnuts, olives, olive oil, pumpkin seeds, and almond butter. All of these are just a few of the delicious things that you may have been avoiding due to your previous beliefs about fat.

Another healthy fat source is fish oil, it is high in omega 3 fatty acid and studies show that fish oil has been proven to help with fat loss, especially in stubborn areas on the body. I suggest using a high quality liquid fish oil instead of a capsule, it is faster absorbing and you will also know when it goes bad due to the fishy odor that you cannot detect with most capsules. This is important to know since rotten fish oil can be somewhat toxic. It should be stored in the refrigerator, you take 1-2 teaspoons of it per day, and it is available in a variety of different flavors. Here is a link to my favorite brand of fish oil. I use the lemon flavor, it is delightful . www.strongerfasterhealthier.com/products/omega-3oil

Most people cringe when they hear the term “saturated fat”. That is because most people don’t know what it can do for your body and the difference between different saturated fats. If you are eating well and exercising regularly small amounts of natural saturated fat will not have a negative effect on you. In contrary it can have a positive effect on your energy, overall health and well-being. Just make sure your body fat is in a healthy range and you are selecting natural sources of saturated fat like tropical oils such as coconut oil. That sluggish 2 o’clock feeling you get isn’t caused by fat or saturated fat. It is caused by excess caloric intake, starchy forms of carbohydrate, and sugar. Whether you are eating carbs or sugar it makes no difference. During the digestive process the body actually breaks carbohydrate down into sugar, which spikes insulin levels and then later stores it as body fat. You can’t go wrong with veggies but if you are wondering what a healthy alternative source of carbohydrate would be, try ½ of a sweet potato or some variety of squash. They are full of nutrients and usually will satisfy those annoying carb cravings, plus they don’t have the negative effects on the body.

If you are not adding any fat into your meals you are missing out on the opportunity to use fat as fuel throughout the day and during your workouts. It is actually recommended that you eat a small amount of protein and a small amount of fat 15-75 minutes prior to your workouts for optimal performance. If you are trying to lose weight, I suggest be conscious of your caloric intake. Nobody likes counting calories but know on average what you are taking in on a daily basis. This can become easier by eating similar meals every day and limiting dining out. Avoid foods with a lot of carbs and sugar. Let’s finally put a stop to the myths about fat; it will NOT make you fat as long as you are eating a low calorie and nutritious diet.

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