We recently posted about protein and how it is critical for athletes. Let’s talk about another macro-nutrient…Fat! 

The Skinny on Fat:

-Fats give you energy
-They support cell growth
-Protect your organs
-Facilitate absorption of nutrients 
-Aid in the production of vital hormones. 

Sacrificing fat is not always a win when it comes to weight loss…it could actually work against you!

How, you ask? 

Well fat intake and body fat stores influence your metabolism in a variety of ways. If you consume too little it can affect how you feel – especially when you’re trying to eat less. Similar to protein, eating moderate amounts of fat can actually help you lose weight faster, without feeling deprived. 

Here are 5 reasons why keeping fat in your diet may help with weight loss:

1. Fat keeps you full.
2. Fat helps you balance blood sugar.
3. Fat helps you absorb nutrients.
4. Fat is essential for good health.
5. Fat is real food.

Here are some healthy food choices to incorporate into your diet to increase good fat intake:

-avocados and avocado oil
-nuts and nut butter
-seeds and seed butter
-cooking oils (including olive, grape seed and coconut)
-fatty fish (sardines, mackerel, herring and wild salmon)
-lean cuts of meat for beef, pork & poultry 
-eggs & low fat cheeses

The amount of fats needed each day, and the sources they should come from, vary by the individual and his or her goals. Someone with a goal to lose weight will require a different amount of fat intake each day than someone trying to perform at a high level athletic competition, for instance. Not sure what you need? Contact us today and we will get you set up in the right direction!