Healthy and good fats: all you need to know

I’m sure you’ve heard the expression, ‘healthy fats’. Applying the concept of ‘healthy’ to an element such as fat might seem like a contradiction in terms, but it isn’t. There are good fats that benefit the functioning of our bodies. Do you know which ones we’re referring to?

Part of the energy that the body receives comes from fats. These fats also play a fundamental role in the absorption of vitamins and the protection of heart and brain health. This is why the consumption of fat is vital.

Saturated and trans fats are the reason for so much contempt for fat, because they are rather harmful to our health. However, there are also polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are popularly known as ‘good fats’. These good fats are responsible for:

• reducing the risks of heart and coronary heart disease

• lowering the levels of cholesterol that are harmful to health

• preventing arrhythmias

• functioning as a natural anti-inflammatory

• leveling blood pressure

In what foods can this type of fat be found?

Mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids can mainly be found in extra virgin olive oils, olives, avocados, nuts, chia, sesame, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, some types of fish, seaweed, beans, and also soybeans.

Achieving excellent body function isn’t possible without the daily consumption of good fats. Ensure you have optimal health and consume a couple of tablespoons of Carapelli extra virgin olive oil each day. You’ll find your recipes are healthier than ever!