Fat is an essential component of your diet. Ask anyone trying to lose some weight, and they’ll tell you that they are avoiding fat. What most people miss out on is the fact that fat is not always bad. It is a major source of energy and helps our body in absorption of several minerals and vitamins. Fats help in building cell membranes and the sheaths that surround cells. The good fats are absolutely essential for everyone to stay healthy and fit in the long term.

What’s the difference?

Fats have been named as good and bad due to the effect that they have on your body. Polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats are actually beneficial for your heart health. They help increase good cholesterol, reduce LDL and lower blood pressure. Bad fats are structurally quite similar to good fats but have an opposite effect on the body. Trans fatty acids and saturated fatty acids found in food items like butter, vanaspati and high-baked salty snacks are bad fats.

Good Fats- Food to Eat

As stated earlier, the consumption of good fats is essential for a healthy heart. These can be found in several food items like- canola oil, olive oil, avocados, almonds, walnuts, fish oil, fal seed, kidney beans and soy. Omega 6 fatty acids that are known to reduce total cholesterol, as well as VLDL AND HDL synthesis is easily found in corn, sunflower and soybean vegetable oils.

Bad Fats-Food to Avoid

Amongst the dietary fat, trans fat is considered to be the worst. It is considered to be unsafe to consume, has no health benefits and has even been banned in the US. It increases LDL cholesterol, reduces HDL cholesterol, and causes inflammation and type 2 diabetes. It was earlier found only in vegetable shortening and solid margarines but is now found abundantly in items like French fries, pastries and commercial cookies.

Next time when you decide to go on a diet and lose weight, do not just banish all fats from your list of foods to eat. This would entail the reduction of good fat as well in your diet, thereby not making you healthier. Know the difference between good fat and bad fat to make an informed and smart decision about your health in the long run.