As a personal trainer in Honeybourne, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve had a new client tell me that they have tried to lose weight by cutting out all fat in their diet. 

Unfortunately, most people wrongly assume that eating fat will make them fat, and to lose weight, they must avoid it altogether. And to be honest, it’s no wonder we all believe this. After all, the message that fat is bad for us has been drummed into most of us since childhood, so it’s understandable that many people link eating fat with weight gain.

In reality though, some fats in our diet help keep us healthy and won’t make us fat if we are sensible and eat fats as part of a balanced diet.

Eating the correct type of fat can be good for us, and it can also have a positive impact on our mental well-being and our physical health.

Good fats are found in foods like:

  • Avocado
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Oily fish
  • Eggs
  • Dark chocolate
  • Cheese
  • Olive Oil
  • Full fat milk

Fats you should eat in moderation are found in foods like:

  • Cakes and biscuits
  • Crisps
  • Fried foods
  • Processed packaged foods

So, let’s debunk the myth that all fat makes you fat once and for all! Here are three reasons why it’s essential to have fat in our diets.

1. Fat Helps Absorb Nutrients

Vitamins that can dissolve in fats and oils are known as fat-soluble vitamins. There are four types of these, which are vitamins A, D, E, and K. Some carotenoids fall into the same bracket too, and you’ll find these in certain vegetables, like carrots and greens. So next time you’re having a salad, try topping it with some healthy fats like walnuts or avocado. Not only does it add to the taste and make it more interesting, but it will also add to the health benefits.

2. Fat Helps Balance Your Blood Sugar

Your blood sugar level has a direct impact on your insulin levels. If they’re too low, it can influence your mood and give you cravings for certain foods – usually sweet treats.

On the other hand, if you eat foods with too much sugar in them, this will cause your blood sugar level to spike and then crash, meaning your cravings for sugar and unhealthy foods will increase.

Having some healthy fats with your meals will help maintain your blood sugar levels at a healthy level, so you’ll be less likely to crave sugary drinks and snacks.

3. Fat Is Essential For The Body

There are five main food groups, and you need a balance between them to stay healthy. Fats are just one of the five groups, and while you shouldn’t eat too much fat, particularly the less nutritious fats, there are many benefits to having a balanced amount of fat in your diet.

Fats can contribute towards a healthy immune system, higher energy levels, body warmth, and protection of essential organs. They can also help with keeping your skin and hair healthy, as well as your hormonal function. As with everything though, fats should be consumed in moderation and not to excess.

Remember, fat won’t make you fat, and there’s no need to cut it out of your diet. Just enjoy healthy fats in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You’ll still be able to reach your fitness goals and achieve the results you’re after!

At The Fitness Room, Honeybourne, we offer nutritional advice alongside personal training, a well-equipped exclusive gym and group exercise classes.

Call us on 07540 060269 for a free consultation and find out more about how we can help you adopt a healthier lifestyle and reach your fitness goals.