Why Does My Body Need Fats?

Fats have been demonized in the media for years, but they’re actually one of the three vital macronutrient groups alongside carbohydrates and proteins. Simply put, your body cannot function optimally without fats.

Fats are made out of fatty acids, which can be saturated or unsaturated. Saturated fats are much harder for the body to break down, and excessive consumption is linked to an increased risk of heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

However, unsaturated fats are much healthier and have important functions in your body. They include polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fatty acids, such as omega-3s and omega-6s.

Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are known to have cardioprotective effects and can enhance your cognitive function. They can lower the levels of inflammation in your body, which reduces your risk of developing a range of health conditions.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Consuming dietary fats is also important to aid the transportation and utilization of fat-soluble vitamins in the body. Fat-soluble vitamins, as the name suggests, dissolve in fat. This means that they can be stored in the body in the liver and adipose (fat) tissue. The fat-soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Fats play an important role in brain function too. Omega-3 fatty acids can increase mental clarity, alertness, and information processing. They also contribute to cell growth and development in the brain during childhood.

Where Can You Find Healthy Fats?

You can find healthy fats in oily fish, avocados, nuts, seeds, and plant-based oils, like olive oil or sunflower oil. Try to consume a combination of these foods to ensure you’re getting a wide variety of healthy fats.