Which Fats Are Beneficial for the Human Body?

Categorization of common fats found in everyday foods

On a daily basis, we consume a myriad of nutrients, but distinguishing between beneficial and harmful substances is crucial. Fat, in particular, can lead to various ailments and weight gain if consumed without discernment. Let’s delve into how fats are classified in our daily diets.

Essential fats

Healthy fats, also referred to as unsaturated fats, are recognized by experts in two primary forms: monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats. Notably, omega-3 and omega-6 fall within the category of polyunsaturated fats. These fats are considered medicinal for overall bodily health and are beneficial for cardiovascular function, making their inclusion in your diet essential.

Furthermore, these good fats aid in reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, a prevalent and hazardous condition in contemporary society. Often, fats are mistakenly associated with weight gain and obesity. Yet, good fats contribute to the production of beneficial cholesterol, promoting individual well-being.

Healthy fats (Photo: Internet Collection)

Unsaturated fats are commonly found in foods such as olive oil, canola oil, various nuts, lean meats, and avocados. Supplementing your diet with these foods can significantly enhance blood cholesterol levels and effectively reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are two essential substances that cannot be synthesized by the body but must be obtained through dietary intake. They are present in foods such as tuna, salmon, legumes, and sunflower seeds. These polyunsaturated fats assist in regulating harmful cholesterol levels in the body and can alleviate arthritis pain.

Harmful effects of fats on health

Commonly referred to as saturated fats, unhealthy fats contribute to elevated levels of harmful cholesterol in the body. Foods containing unhealthy fats, including butter, beef or pork fat, and margarine, should be consumed in moderation. Additionally, trans fats represent another form of unhealthy fat.

Saturated fats are primarily found in animal fats and dairy products such as beef fat, meat, chicken skin, cheese, cream, palm oils, and cocoa butter. Excessive consumption of foods high in saturated fat elevates bad cholesterol levels and increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Similarly to saturated fat, trans fat lowers protective cholesterol levels and increases harmful cholesterol levels, leading to conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and, more critically, stroke. Foods containing trans fats include French fries, fast food items, and baked goods.

Consequently, the reliance on everyday dishes without anticipating the potential harm they might cause is a concerning reality. As the body cannot produce fats on its own, it must absorb them daily, which can lead to various health issues.

Experts typically advise limiting the consumption of fast food due to its propensity to elevate harmful cholesterol levels, posing risks to one’s health. The consequences of excessive intake of bad fats can lead to the blockage of blood vessels. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure the well-being of individuals and families by restricting fat intake to a maximum of 10%.

Fat is detrimental to health. (Photo: Internet Collection)

Furthermore, by meeting your dietary requirements with wholesome foods, or by supplementing and substituting saturated fats with omega-3, omega-6, and monounsaturated fats, you can effectively enhance your blood cholesterol levels. For individuals following a vegetarian diet, incorporating eggs can serve as a means to ensure the daily intake of essential fatty acids.

Elaboration on the uses and benefits of beneficial fats

To gain a deeper understanding of each type of beneficial fat, you can explore their various uses, advantages, and common food sources containing these healthy fats to diversify your dietary choices.

Monounsaturated Fat

Present in olive oils, avocados, and nuts, monounsaturated fats aid in:

Weight management: Monounsaturated fats can facilitate more effective weight loss compared to a high-carbohydrate diet. Specifically, carbohydrates, known as the body’s primary energy source, can lead to weight gain if consumed excessively due to increased sugar intake.

Reduction of cardiovascular risks: Elevated cholesterol levels in the bloodstream contribute to arterial blockages, which can result in heart attacks and strokes. Monounsaturated fats, on the other hand, help decrease blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Additionally, adhering to a scientifically balanced diet can effectively lower blood pressure.

Enhancement of insulin sensitivity: Insulin, a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar levels by facilitating the movement of glucose into cells, is crucial for preventing conditions such as high blood sugar and type 2 diabetes. Monounsaturated fats play a role in promoting optimal insulin production, thereby aiding in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.

Monounsaturated fat (Photo: Internet Collection)

Polyunsaturated Fat

Similar to monounsaturated fats, polyunsaturated acids have an even more profound impact on your body. This type of fat is derived from plant sources, including roasted soybeans, soybean butter, walnuts, pine nuts, as well as vegetable oils like corn oil and sesame oil.

The foods we consume on a daily basis are typically a blend of various components, encompassing both beneficial and harmful fats. Making mindful choices in our dietary selections is crucial. Regular consumption of fast food and greasy items can significantly impact our health more negatively compared to a diet rich in plant-based foods and green vegetables.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

EPA, DHA, and ALA are among the most common omega-3 fatty acids, integral components of cell membranes that contribute to the following:

• Enhanced heart health: Omega-3 aids in elevating the levels of HDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as “good” cholesterol. Additionally, it helps to lower triglycerides, reduce blood pressure, and prevent the development of arterial plaque.
• Reduction of liver fat: Adequate daily intake of omega-3 promotes a healthy liver and significantly reduces the accumulation of fat in this vital organ.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Omega-3s play a crucial role in reducing the inflammatory response in the body, thereby curbing the prevalence of chronic diseases.
• Asthma prevention: Omega-3 intake can alleviate the symptoms of asthma, a chronic respiratory disease. Sufficient consumption of omega-3 can help minimize the impact of asthma, particularly during the early stages of the disease. Furthermore, the Western diet often lacks an adequate amount of this essential substance, making individuals more susceptible to obesity and diabetes.

Omega-3 fatty acids help promote optimal health. (Photo: Internet Collection)

Omega-6 Acids

As a crucial fat for the body’s functions, it exerts significant positive effects in:

Preventing cardiovascular diseases by reducing cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Therefore, individuals who particularly benefit from adequate omega-6 supplementation are the elderly, as it can effectively prevent cardiovascular ailments and promote optimal nourishment for the brain and eyes.

Common sources of omega-6 include flaxseed oil, sunflower oil, soybean oil, as well as common condiments such as mayonnaise and salad dressings. Margarine also contains a substantial amount of omega-6 acids.

Nevertheless, maintaining a balance between omega-3 and omega-6 is essential, as an excess of omega-6 can lead to water retention in the body, resulting in elevated blood pressure and an increased risk of blood clots in the blood vessels, which can be detrimental to one’s health. Thus, it is vital to ensure a 1:1 ratio supplementation of these two fats to maintain a balanced nutritional intake for the body.

How much fat should be consumed daily?

Fat serves as an essential energy source for the body, necessary for supporting fundamental functions and aiding in the absorption of vitamins A, D, E, and K from food. However, excessive fat consumption can lead to obesity and persistent weight gain, as fat calories are more readily converted into body fat compared to calories from carbohydrates or protein.

So, what is the recommended daily intake of fat? Experts suggest that individuals should consume only 20-35% of their total calories from fat. In a daily 2000-calorie diet, one should ideally intake between 400 and 700 calories from fat, equivalent to 44 – 78g. Moreover, the intake of saturated fat should be limited to no more than 10%.

How much fat is sufficient for daily intake? (Photo: Internet Collection)

Each person’s dietary requirements and nutritional needs differ. For instance, an individual with excess weight should aim to consume only 65g of fat if their daily energy requirement is 2000 calories. This is due to the fact that fat contains 9 calories per gram, whereas carbohydrates and protein contain only 4 calories per gram.

Foods Rich in Healthy Fats

If you find yourself pondering and worrying about the types of fats that are beneficial for the body and the foods that typically contain them, please take a look at the following daily food options that are abundant in good fats, which you can readily incorporate into your diet.

Eggs

Often, we provide our bodies with daily foods without understanding their constituent substances and their impact on our health. However, eggs are a suitable option for immediate supplementation. Having an egg in the morning can provide a longer-lasting feeling of fullness and help curb later cravings.

Having an egg for breakfast keeps you satiated for an extended period. (Photo: Internet Collection)

In reality, eggs are a significant source of calories, with each egg containing more than 70 calories. Depending on the size of the egg, it can even contain up to 90 calories, making it a convenient option for weight control. Moreover, egg yolks contain highly beneficial omega-3 fatty acids that aid in reducing inflammation in the body and mitigating the risk of joint, heart, and cancer diseases.

Cheese

Regarded as a rich source of calcium, vitamin B12, phosphorus, and selenium for the body, cheese, derived from the milk of grass-fed animals, is highly beneficial. It aids in disease prevention, such as obesity and heart disease, while also helping to reduce inflammation.

Cheese (Photo: Internet Collection)

Nevertheless, all cheese variants contain a substance called lactose, which is a relatively common sugar. Excessive lactose consumption can lead to digestive issues such as gas and bloating. Additionally, individuals with high blood pressure should exercise caution when consuming cheese, as it often contains a substantial amount of sodium.

Dark Chocolate

A bar of dark chocolate boasts a high cocoa content and is truly a nutritious treat that should be incorporated into your daily intake. In addition to cocoa, dark chocolate contains a considerable amount of fiber and soluble minerals. However, it is essential to consume dark chocolate in moderation, allowing for intervals between consumption to ensure an appropriate and controlled intake.

Dark Chocolate – Food that brings many benefits to your body. (Photo: Internet Collection)

Most chocolate bars contain both saturated and monounsaturated fats, alongside smaller amounts of polyunsaturated fats. Their primary benefits include stress reduction, memory enhancement, and the preservation of overall health. It is advisable to opt for dark chocolate with a cocoa content of at least 70% for optimal health benefits.

Butter

Containing over 70% fat, butter has a higher fat content compared to many other foods. The fats present in avocados are predominantly monounsaturated fats, and the potassium content aids in reducing harmful cholesterol levels and triglycerides in the blood. Moreover, the fiber content in avocados contributes to elevating the levels of beneficial cholesterol in the bloodstream.

Dark Chocolate – A food offering numerous benefits for your body. (Photo: Internet Collection)

Despite its relatively high fat content, avocado is a food that does not contribute to weight gain. In fact, individuals who consume avocados tend to experience weight loss and reduced belly fat.

Nuts

Beyond their delightful synthesis of aromatic, fatty, and crunchy flavors, nuts offer a range of health benefits. The interior of nuts is typically rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, providing a source of healthy energy for the body.

Nuts effectively reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. (Photo: Internet Collection)

Moreover, owing to their antioxidant properties, nuts aid in reducing the risk of associated diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and, more critically, stroke. Additionally, certain nuts contribute to safe weight loss, with almonds and pistachios being particularly effective in improving waist circumference.

Chia Seeds

A 28g serving of chia seeds can contain up to 9g of fat, with the majority of calories in chia seed products derived from fat. Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a type of beneficial fat that the body consistently requires for supplementation. Furthermore, chia seeds promote overall health, mitigate low blood sugar conditions, and exhibit effective anti-inflammatory properties.

Chia seeds aid in reducing inflammation and promoting health. (Photo: Internet Collection)

Olive Oil

Olive oil typically contains monounsaturated fatty acids, along with vitamins E, K, and antioxidants. Its delightful aroma also makes it a versatile ingredient suitable for various culinary uses, including frying and salad dressings.

The numerous benefits of olive oil include its positive impact on the liver and gallbladder, reducing the risk of fatty liver disease, and aiding the digestive system by facilitating the treatment of constipation and infections. Additionally, it has been known to reduce the risk of diabetes, exhibit antibacterial properties, and help prevent osteoporosis.

Olive oil reduces the risk of liver diseases. (Photo: Internet Collection)

Read more: How to Whiten Skin with Olive Oil

Which fat is beneficial for the body?” – This question has already been addressed in this article. Hopefully, with the information provided, you can select safe foods that are not only nutritious but also contribute to maintaining a healthy and well-proportioned physique. Best of luck!