High-fat foods you should be eating more of (they’re actually really good for you)
Contrary to popular belief, fats could be healthy, depending on its source. For example, fats from processed foods, fried foods, and baked goods are harmful to your health. On the other hand, fats found in natural foods are actually healthy and nutritious. Here are some of the healthy high-fat foods you need to include in your diet.
- Avocados: Commonly used in making guacamole, avocados are rich in healthy fats and can fight inflammation, which is linked to cardiovascular disease. Studies show that eating avocados can regulate your cholesterol, blood pressure, and triglyceride levels. In addition, you need to consume healthy fats for your body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. However, when eating avocados, keep your overall calorie intake in mind, as one avocado contains about 320 calories. (Related: Top 8 Healthy Fats to Include in any Diet, be it Muscle Building or Weight Loss.)
- Olive oil: Many studies show that olive oil can lower your risk for cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. It contains compounds called oleic acid and secoiridoid that slow the aging process. When buying olive oil, choose extra virgin olive oil because it is extracted using natural methods.
- Nuts: Nuts are rich in nutrients like amino acids, vitamin E, and unsaturated fatty acids. Research shows that eating an ounce serving of nuts every day can lower your risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Nut butters, such as almond, cashew, and peanut, also contain healthy fats that can help you feel full and satisfied. Just avoid nuts and nut butters that have added ingredients, such as sugars or vegetable oils.
- Coconut oil: Coconut oil had a bad reputation because its calories mostly come from saturated fat. However, the main type of saturated fat in coconut oil is lauric acid, which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Additionally, coconut oil contains medium chain triglycerides (MCT) which can be used as an immediate source of energy.
- Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is a great source of good fats and keeps the heart healthy. Research shows that good gut bacteria feast on dark chocolate, then they grow and ferment it, which produces anti-inflammatory compounds that are good for your cardiovascular health. Moreover, eating dark chocolate can help you maintain a healthy weight.
- Olives: Olives contain high amounts of oleic acid, which is the monounsaturated fatty acid that keeps the heart healthy. Olives are also loaded with antioxidants that protect the cell from damage, as well as copper, fiber, and iron.
- Seeds: Seeds may be small, but they are packed with nutrients. Seeds like chia, flax, hemp, pump, and sunflower are loaded with monounsaturated fats like omega-3s, which fight inflammation. They also contain good amounts of fiber, protein, and vitamins and minerals like vitamin E, iron, and magnesium.