Time To Touch on Fats Again

I've had several questions about fats recently, so I feel the need to write about them one more time. First I have to say that all fat is not bad. What you have to do is begin to read labels, when it says "Fat Free" what does that mean, what is actually in the product.

The three fats we hear about are unsaturated, saturated, and trans fat. The unsaturated can be good as can some of the saturated fats. The trans fats are a result of processing of the food and are like sticking poison into your system. Even just a little trans fat is very unhealthy for your body. So be sure you're reading the labels.

Now that I've beat into you reading the labels, here's somethings to be aware of. If a label says "zero trans fat" that does not mean there is no trans fat in the food. In fact according to labeling guidelines, a manufacturer can put zero trans fats if there is less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving. Your maximum amount of trans fat per day should be no more than 2 grams totally according to the American Heart Association, but for me that is too much. If trans fat is poison to my system why would I want to put any amount into my body?!

Here are the things to watch for on the label: partially hydrogenated oil, shortening, and any food with an extended shelf life. See my postings on fat starting September 6, 2008.

Essential Fatty Acids

There are 2 essential fatty acids that you may be aware of, linoleic and linolenic. Your body requires 2% of your caloric intake to be linoleic acid. Linoleic acid is a polyunsaturated fat, so you might think it's a good idea to load up on the polyunsaturated fats. Not true. Eating more than 10% of your calories in polyunsaturated fats can result in the suppression the production of good cholesterol.

Linoleic acid is the most important fatty acid and your body cannot produce it on it's own. The body requires you to get it from foods that you eat. Best foods to eat for linoleic acid are nuts, seeds and some vegetable oils. Watch the vegetable oils for hydrogenation.

Linoleic acid is important for growth and development as well as producing hormones that can help the body maintain a good blood pressure.