17 / 06 / 24

Five Fats You Should Have In Your Kitchen

Fat gets a bad rap—unjustifiably so. Contrary to popular belief, consuming the right kinds of fats in sufficient quantities is crucial for optimising your health. Fat does not make you fat; it’s vital to almost every bodily function, especially saturated fats. Here, we explore five essential fats you should have in your kitchen and their crucial roles in your health.

• Butter

Ah, butter—what can we say about grass-fed butter? It’s one of the most perfect foods on this planet. Like Julia Child, I believe you can’t eat too much butter. The more butter I eat, the slimmer I get! Butter from grass-fed cows, especially when it’s deep yellow or orange, is rich in nutrients and was considered a sacred food by traditional cultures.

Butter stabilises blood sugar and significantly reduces sugar cravings. The saturated fat in butter is what your cell walls need to function correctly. Replacing butter with margarine compromises cell integrity. Great substitutes are available for those with dairy allergies. Butter’s unique nutritional profile makes it indispensable in the kitchen.

• Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is loaded with medium-chain saturated fats that the body uses for immediate energy. It’s highly stable, doesn’t go rancid quickly, and remains solid at room temperature. Coconut oil is ideal for cooking at high temperatures and can be used in baking for moist, delicious results.

This oil also boosts metabolism and supports thyroid function, making it a fantastic addition for anyone struggling with hypothyroidism. Coconut oil’s lauric acid content provides antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal benefits. If you have candida issues, coconut oil is a must-have. Even if you prefer its flavourless variant, expeller-pressed coconut oil, incorporating this fat into your diet can significantly enhance your energy and health.

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is best for salad dressings and low-heat cooking. It’s rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and beneficial for overall wellness. Avoid using olive oil for high-heat cooking, as it can turn rancid and lose its nutritional benefits.

For those who gain weight with olive oil, alternative oils like sesame or peanut oil with a touch of flax oil can be used for dressings. Pure, unblended extra virgin olive oil should be a staple in your kitchen for its nutritional advantages and versatility.

• Animal Fats

Traditional cultures thrived on animal fats such as tallow, lard, and schmaltz. These fats are not only nutritious but also impart fantastic flavour to dishes. Using rendered animal fats to cook vegetables or make stocks can make your meals more satisfying and nutritious.

Animal fats were unfairly demonised in the past, but they are a healthy addition to your diet. They are rich in fat-soluble vitamins and provide the right type of fat for cell integrity and hormone production. Incorporate animal fats into your cooking for a nutrient-dense, flavorful diet.

• High Vitamin Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil rounds out the list of essential fats. It is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and contains vitamins A and D in their natural state. These vitamins work synergistically to enhance the function of every system in your body.

Deficiency in omega-3s can lead to inflammation and various health issues. Including high-quality cod liver oil in your diet can boost your immunity, improve bone health, and support overall wellness. This traditional remedy is still relevant today for maintaining vibrant health.

Changing the perception of fat is crucial for improving health. The right fats—like butter, coconut, olive, animal, and cod liver oil—are essential for vitality and wellness. By incorporating these fats into your diet and eliminating factory fats, you can immediately experience significant health benefits. Embrace these healthy fats and transform your diet and health for the better.

 
We help our members with a nutritional programme that works for them; if you’re struggling, give us a shout at one of our personal training gyms in West London, and we’ll help you work out a plan that suits you.

You may also find our nutritional e-books helpful to eating healthier.

 

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