In the past, weight loss advice often focused around avoiding fat in the diet. The rationale was that the higher calorie content in fatty foods would make it harder for you to shed pounds. But as so many things do, that theory has mostly become extinct.

Now we know that there are “good” fats and “not so good” fats. And the good fats are not only acceptable to include in your eating plan; they’re actually good for you! Here’s why.

Fat digests more slowly. Fat takes longer to break down in your digestive system, meaning you will feel full for longer. Plus, fat doesn’t trigger blood sugar spikes and crashes the way carbohydrates often can, so you might find that your mood and energy levels stay more level when you include good fats in your diet.

Your brain needs fat. The omega-3 fatty acids in good fats help to boost memory and cognition. Their anti-inflammatory properties also help to protect your brain from age-related deterioration.

Your body needs fat to absorb certain vitamins and minerals. Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat soluble, meaning you need to pair them with fat in order to access these minerals in your diet. Certain trace nutrients like lycopene and lutein – powerful antioxidants – also require fat for proper absorption. Pair your salads with an oil-based dressing to fight cancer and other chronic diseases.

Fat is satisfying. Your body responds to fats by producing a chemical that signals satiety. So when you eat a meal with a bit of fat in it, you feel full faster!

Fat makes food taste good. Let’s be honest; fat just makes foods taste better. If a drizzle of olive oil makes a salad more enjoyable, or a tangy marinade gives flavor to lean grilled protein, then you’ll be encouraged to eat more healthfully all the time.

Of course, as we mentioned there are good fats and not-so-good fats. Avoid the ones in fried foods, fast food, packaged snacks, and desserts. Focus on unsaturated fats like olive oil, avocados, fish, nuts, and seeds. And remember that we’re here to discuss your weight loss plan whenever you need us. We can help you balance your diet and include the right nutrients for both weight loss and overall better health.