July Article of the Carolina Christian Newspaper http://www.carolinachristiannews.com/

HEALTHY FATS ~ Oxymoron? Is there such a thing? Can you still lose weight?

“Nevertheless I am continually with thee: thou hast holden me by my right hand.” Psalm 73:23

After being in the field of health and fitness for over a decade, I’ve been pretty consistent with my exercise routine.  However, I was ignorant of what constitutes healthy eating, because for the most part, I was trying to stay away from fats, as most of us are.  It wasn’t until recently, that I started incorporating “Healthy Fats” into my diet.  Incredible, is an understatement of how I have felt, and seen my body change, almost immediately.  Our bodies know the difference!  Healthy fats are a part of a healthy regimen.

What if I told you that healthy fats: decrease body fat percentage, lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of certain cancers, lower blood pressure, reduce inflammation and arthritis pain, help decrease depression and dementia, reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, decrease allergies, increase restful sleep, skin, hair and nails, and stabilize blood glucose in order to sustain your energy level throughout the day? Would you then want to start incorporating them in your diet?

Believe it or not, you DON’T have to give up fats to lose weight or enjoy better health. The fact is that your body needs healthy fats for optimal health and performance and to maintain physical and mental health. We can change that unhealthy thinking by learning what healthy fats are, how to find them and how to use and consume them.  Understanding fats and recognizing their health benefits may empower you to make life-altering changes in your nutrition plan. 

Here are some Unhealthy Fats that you should eliminate or minimize in your diet: Trans-Fatty Acids: Anything that says “Hydrogenate or partially hydrogenated oils, margarine, shortening.  Here are some Healthy Fats that you can start implementing into your diet right away: (Saturated Fats): Organic Extra-virgin Coconut Oil and Organic Butter, (Monounsaturated Fats): Extra-virgin olive oil, almond oil, canola mayonnaise, olives, avocados, natural peanut butter, slivered almonds, almond butter, (Omega-3): Flax meal, flaxseed oil, fish oils, cod liver oil, walnuts, most nuts, (Omega-6): Evening Primrose Oil, sunflower oil, pumpkin seed oil, sesame oil.

To receive a FREE Nutritional Consultation and Personal Training Session, please visit http://www.burnfatbuildmuscle.biz or 704-236-9493.  Beckie Saupé is a Lifestyle Coach and Fitness Instructor, with a mission to Help Others Become Their Personal Best Through Living A Healthy Lifestyle.