Healthy Bits · Nutrition & wellness

Healthy fats vs. bad fats

Fat is not the enemy. Your body needs it to absorb vitamins A, D, E and K, build cell membranes and make hormones, and it helps meals keep you satisfied. The real question is which fats to lean on.

Fats to enjoy often:

  • Extra virgin olive oil, avocados and olives
  • Nuts and seeds, including walnuts, flax and chia
  • Fatty fish like salmon and sardines, rich in omega-3s

The fats most worth limiting are trans fats, found in anything listing "partially hydrogenated oil," which are clearly linked with heart disease. Deep-fried foods are best kept occasional too. Saturated fats, like butter and coconut oil, are more debated; enjoying them in moderation alongside plenty of plant fats is a sensible middle ground.

Try this: drizzle olive oil over your vegetables tonight.

Healthy Bits are for general education and aren’t medical advice. Check with your doctor or healthcare provider before making changes, especially if you’re pregnant or nursing, take medication, or are managing a health condition.

A new healthy bit, every day.

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