By Brandan Fokken:
There is an unhealthy obsession with fat. We count it, pinch it, trim it, measure it, and avoid it, but why? How did our society become so fat-phobic?
A Brief History:
The low-fat, low-cholesterol dietary dogma was introduced around 1961 by Ancel Keys. What people may not know is that Keys cherry picked the data that supported his claim and stuffed the data that did not. Consequently, over 60 years of dietary recommendations were based on bad science, greed, ego, and powerful lobbying efforts.
Keys’ flawed research became so influential and engrained in our society, that researchers who provided conflicting data were ostracized. Powerful forces such as the American Heart Association and the USDA adopted the theory that fat was bad and carbohydrates were good. However, by following those recommendations, we became sicker and fatter. Obesity, diabetes, heart disease have risen dramatically as the intake of fat and cholesterol has declined. Why?
New Research:
- In 2013, the British Medical Journal reported that we should ignore advice to reduce fat intake, because it actually increased our risk of obesity and heart disease.
- In March 2014, a meta-analysis of nearly 80 studies published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, found that those who consume higher amounts of saturated fat have no more heart disease than those who consume less.
Why Fat is Important:
- Cell structure
- Brain function (mood, memory, clarity)
- Mineral absorption
- Vitamin absorption
- Hormone synthesis
- Anti-viral agent
- Genetic regulation and cancer prevention
- Provides satiety (makes you feel fuller, longer)
Where to Find Good Fat:
- Coconut Oil
- Olive Oil
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Avocado
- Eggs
- Fish
- Meat and butter that is free of antibiotics and hormones
The Real Enemy in Your Diet? Sugar
Please remember this: Everything you eat or drink sends a message. It is a message of healing or a message of harm. Sugar sends a message to release insulin. Insulin tells your body to store fat around your midsection. Sugar sends a harmful message. Good fat sends a message of healing.
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