Wait… that sounds like an oxymoron; but in fact, it’s not. Newer, more developed diets understand that lowering fat intake doesn’t equate with dropping fat. In fact, fat is a necessity in weight loss and overall health, in that it provides energy, protects our organs and helps the body absorb and process nutrients. Lowering or monitoring carbohydrate intake and upping fat intake is the key to unlocking weight management.
But wait! Before you go grabbing that double whopper, understand that not all fats are created equal.
Here are 5 fat-tastic foods that you should definitely implement into your diet!
1. Avocados
Avocados – the butter of Mother Nature. Delicious and easy to manipulate, avocados are definitely a crowd pleaser. They are different than most other fruits, in that they are LOADED with fats. In fact, avocados are about 77% fat, making them higher in fat than most animal proteins. Avocados contain something called oleic acid, which can help tremendously in quieting the feelings of hunger. Aside from this, they are a great source of potassium and fiber.
2. Salmon
More and more people are learning the tremendous health benefits of salmon. Simply implementing two servings of salmon into your diet every week will give you the recommended amount of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Add some chopped avocado for a double wammy on those health benefits.
3. Olive Oil
Head straight for the olive oil aisle. There are so many benefits to using olive oil from skin care, to weight loss, to disease management. Olive oil contains something called Adiponectin, which is a hormone responsible for breaking down fats in the body. The more you have of it, the lower your BMI tends to be.
4. Almond Butter
We are nuts for nuts! What is it about almonds, however, that stands out among the rest? Almonds contain compounds that limit the amount of fat absorbed by the body, allowing for some to pass through undigested. Not to mention, it also reaps huge cardiovascular benefits and is a great source of protein. Great on toast, great in oatmeal, and it’s awesome straight from the spoon!
5. Dark Chocolate
Don’t fight your sweet tooth – just work with it. Believe it or not, this tasty treat can actually help keep your belly flat when you are having unhealthy cravings! Dark chocolate contains mostly monounsaturated fats, like oleic acid. It takes more time to process in the body, thus staving off hunger and holding you longer.
