Fear Not: Fats Are Essential For Good Health

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Fear Not: Fats Are Essential For Good Health

3minute read -
Published 2 years ago

Posted By Nurse Andi

Did you know that fats have a hand in just about everything? These nutrient-dense wonders do everything from keeping your hair and skin healthy to providing energy and helping you absorb specific vitamins.

Read on to learn some fun facts about fats that may just surprise you.

An Essential Component of Every Cell Membrane

Every cell in your body is surrounded by a double layer of lipids (fats) known as the cell membrane.

This critical layer is responsible for regulating what goes in and out of the cell and providing structural support.

In fact, without lipids, cells would simply collapse.

A Critical Player in Hormone Production

Hormones are chemical messengers that help regulate many processes throughout the body, from metabolism and reproduction to hunger and stress.

And nearly all hormones are derived from fat.

In fact, the most prevalent hormone in the body, testosterone, is made from cholesterol.

So next time you’re feeling down about dietary fats, remember that they’re helping keep your hormones balanced.

Helps You Absorb Certain Vitamins

Specific vitamins like A, D, E, and K are insoluble in water, so your body cannot absorb them unless paired with fat.

So when you eat foods rich in these vitamins (think: fatty fish, leafy greens, and oils), make sure to include a source of fat (like avocado or olive oil) to help your body fully reap the benefits.

A Rich Source of Energy

When it comes to energy production, carbohydrates get all the glory, while fats get a bad rap.

But the truth is, fat is actually a more efficient source of energy than carbs because it produces more ATP (the primary unit of energy in the body) per molecule than carbohydrates do.

So if you’re looking for lasting energy that won’t give you the dreaded sugar crash later on, reach for healthy fats instead of sugary snacks.