Thursday, February 28, 2008

Fat Does a Body Good

Yep, your eyes aren't deceiving you. Fat does the body good.

Of course, I'm talking about the good fats-- the Omega 3's--not the artery clogging trans fats. You need fat to help your body absorb fat soluble vitamins, keep your energy levels up, help you feel full, and to provide the body with essential fatty acids it can't produce on its own.

However, a common mistake some people trying to lose weight make, is to cut just about all fat out of their diet. Don't do that. Sure, their logic may be "If I don't eat fat, I won't get fat--I'll be skinny in no time, fo sho'!"

But, in reality, you may be sabotoging yourself. If your body isn't receiving the proper amount of essential oils, it will retain all the fat it needs.

Here's another interesting fact about fat; not only does the BODY need fat, so does the BRAIN. A recent study has shown that 6 out of 10 people suffering from depression, got relief from taking fish oil (omega 3) supplements. It appears that omega 3's help the brain use Seratonin, the chemical that helps lift our mood.

A great way to ensure that you are receiving enough Omega 3 in your diet is to eat fatty fish like salmon several times a week. If this is not practical, another option may be to take a dietary supplement. It's recommended that people take approximately 2000 mg a day. However, if you are on anticoagulants, have a bleeding disorder, uncontrollable hypertension, or a weakened immune system, you should check with your doctor first.

I'm not big on recommending supplements, but I feel the benefits of Omega 3 warrants it. Try it for yourself -- think about taking 500mg three times a day with a meal,and see how you feel. Also, take a multivitamin to help replenish any vitamins your diet may be lacking --this is really all you need.