Weight loss tip: fat does not make us 'fat'

Weight loss tip...

Fat does not make us 'fat' - failing to oust an overconsumption of calories does.

Although fat fuelled food sources such as sugary sweet treats, processed pastries and tasty takeaways may hinder our health, any nutrient - be it carbohydrates, fat or protein - that is consumed in excess will be converted to the 'fat' that contributes to a wider waistline if we fail to eliminate the excess energy via exercise.

In fact, despite fat's energy dense properties providing more than double the calories (9 per gram) found in carbohydrates and protein, this necessary nutrient is not only essential for the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, temperature maintenance and insulation and the protective cushioning of internal organs, its also a macronutrient (the body requires it in large amounts) that provides a source of energy, essential fatty acids (the type that the body can't create) and the feeling of fullness - particularly when paired with protein - making it mandatory for the maintenance of a healthy body and brain, and suitable for aiding satiety when we're struggling to eliminate excess weight.

Top tip: although fat should not be feared, we should still aim to slash the saturated fat found in food sources such as cakes, chocolate, confectionery and fatty cuts of meat, and the trans fats found in conventionally raised animals and hydrogenated (and partially hydrogenated) vegetable oils in favour of fuelling our body with the unsaturated fats found in food sources such as raw, unsalted nuts and seeds, avocado, oily fish and olive oil in order to aid optimal health.