Q9 - How bad are fats for me - EN

avr. 24, 2024 8 mins read

How Bad Are Fats For Me?

To answer this question, it's vital to start by dispelling a common myth: fats are not inherently bad for us. On the contrary, fats are crucial to life itself. They are the cleanest and most efficient form of energy we have. In fact, the human heart cells rely mainly on fats for energy. Unlike other cells in the body, human heart cells do not regenerate, meaning they will be with you from birth to death. As such, they require a higher quality of energy for optimal function, which is provided by fat.

Moreover, the brain is predominantly composed of water and fat. Neurons, the nerve cells responsible for transmitting signals throughout the body, are coated with a fat layer called the myelin sheath. This layer is indispensable in the proper functioning of nerve cells.

Beyond the brain and heart, all organs and cells are insulated by a phospholipid layer, or fatty layer, to prevent water and other fluids from entering the cell or the organ. This insulation is a vital function that helps maintain the integrity of our cells and organs.

Fats also play a significant role in temperature management. They insulate us from the cold, offering a protective barrier that is crucial for system stability. Furthermore, fats are essential for the absorption of nutrients, particularly fat-soluble vitamins, such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K.

However, while fats are undeniably essential to our health and bodily functions, there are two key issues we need to be aware of.

The first issue is that most fats we accumulate do not come from eating fatty foods alone. The liver converts the excess sugar we consume into fat reserves. So ironically, we are getting fat not because of high fat consumption, but because of excess sugar consumption.

The second issue lies in the types of fats we consume. Many of the foods we find in shops and processed foods use very toxic types of unnatural fats. These types of fats can be harmful to our health and should be avoided as much as possible.

Instead, we should aim to consume natural fats, found in whole foods like avocados, nuts, seeds, fish, lean meats, olives, and olive oil. These foods offer healthier types of fats that our bodies need to function optimally.

In conclusion, fats are not bad for us. They play a vital role in our health and bodily functions. However, it's important to be aware of the types of fats we consume and ensure we are eating a healthy, balanced diet. And remember, it's not just about the quantity of fat we consume, but the quality as well.

 

Partager