Date:  August 29, 2006         

Key Points:

 Fats are:

1. ESSENTIAL for the body to function properly including the control of blood pressure, blood clotting, & inflammation.

2. An important long term energy source.

3. Necessary for healthy skin & hair.

4. Necessary for the fat soluble vitamins A, D, K to work.

5. Two Main Types:

a. Saturated:  the NOT SO GOOD fats; including the animal fats in red meats and full fat dairy; coconut, palm, and palm kernel oils. These types of fats stay hard at room temperature.

b. Unsaturated:  the GOOD fats; including olive, canola, peanut, sunflower, and sesame oils. These types of oils stay liquid at room temperature. Also good: avocado; nut butters; nuts & seeds.

6. Cholesterol is found only in animal products and is a saturated fat so limit intake.

7. Avoid foods with unhealthy trans fats & hydrogenated fats (see topic: 9/5/2006) such as many margarines, crackers, and desserts.

8. Approximately 25% of your daily food intake should be from the good fats for optimal health.

We welcome your questions and comments. info@thefitnesst.com