For many years, fat was considered a villain in the diet. However, there is increasing evidence to show that not all fats are created equal. In fact, research suggests that consuming the right types of fats is crucial for health and longevity. One of the primary reasons for this is that fats form the building blocks of cell membranes. Lets explore the types of fats and their role in the body.
The two basic types of fatty acids are saturated and unsaturated fats. Saturated fats have carbon bonds that are fully paired with hydrogen atoms, making them solid at room temperature. They are found in animal products such as butter, meat, and cheese. Monounsaturated fats, on the other hand, have one missing pair of hydrogen atoms, making them liquid at room temperature. They are found in olive oil, nuts, and avocado.
Polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) have two or more missing pairs of hydrogen atoms, making them highly unstable. These fats are commonly found in vegetable oils, such as canola, soybean, and corn oils. Consuming too many PUFAs can lead to inflammation in the body, which is a contributing factor to many chronic diseases.
Because your tissues are made up mostly of saturated and monounsaturated fats, your body requires more of them than PUFAs. Consuming too many PUFAs can lead to an imbalance in the body and can contribute to chronic diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. PUFA’s are seed oils, and most oil that are a liquid at room temperature.
In addition to their role in cell membranes, fats also protect the body’s organs, regulate hormones, and insulate the body. Consuming healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, can improve brain function, decrease inflammation, and support heart health. But to much omega-3 is not more of a good thing, omega-3 fatty acids can oxidize as well but in small amounts are extremely healthy and can indeed reduce inflammation.
It’s important to note that not all fats are created equal. Trans fats, for example, are highly processed and have been linked with an increased risk of heart disease. It’s important to read labels carefully and avoid foods that contain trans fats.
Butter for example, if it is real butter and not adulterated, is very healthy for the body. Real Butter is an Excellent Source of Vitamins!
One of the main benefits of consuming real butter is the high content of essential vitamins like A, D, and K. These vitamins are responsible for helping the body absorb calcium, promoting good vision, immune function, and overall bone health. Moreover, the beneficial nutrients found in real butter are not found in margarines or other butter substitutes.
Saturated Fats Do Not Lead to Cardiovascular Disease
Contrary to popular belief, the saturated fats found in butter do not lead to cardiovascular diseases. A study conducted by the Harvard School of Public Health discovered that there is no link between saturated fat intake and cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke. The saturated fats present in butter help improve cholesterol levels by increasing HDL cholesterol levels while decreasing LDL cholesterol in the body. Saturated fats like butter do not oxidize. This oxidation causes buildup in the cardiovascular system leading to heart disease.
Butter Contains Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)
Another beneficial component of butter is Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), which is known to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties. It’s responsible for reducing the risk of cancer and diabetes, improving weight loss, and enhancing heart health. However, the amount of CLA present in butter depends on the diet of the animals the dairy products come from.
Butter is a Healthier Alternative to Processed Foods
Your grocery store may have an array of low-calorie margarines and other butter substitutes. However, processed foods like these are often full of trans fats and harmful additives like seed oils. Rather than opt for these processed foods, it’s recommended to consume butter in moderation as it’s much more filling and reduces the craving for junk food.
Consuming the right types of fats is crucial for overall health and longevity. Saturated fats and monounsaturated fats form the building blocks of cell membranes and are essential for the body’s tissues. PUFAs, while important in small amounts, should be limited in the diet to avoid inflammation and chronic diseases. By consuming healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, you can support brain function, decrease inflammation, and support heart health when consumed in small amounts as well. Avoid seed oils that are high in omega-6, unfortunately olive oil and avocado oil found in grocery stores are cut with seed oils to save the manufactures money, these added seed oils are not listed on the label therefor it is recommended that we avoid olive oil and avocado oils, these oils can easily oxidize and is a major contributor to cardiovascular disease. Remember, not all fats are created equal, so it’s important to read labels carefully and avoid foods that contain trans fats and seed oils. It is best to cook from home and avoid mass market oils that are liquid at room temperature for they may be cut with cheap seed oils. Hope this helps you make good decisions when cooking your meals, and enjoy an long and healthy life, thank you for reading!
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