Fitness Tip #15: Fats
These are some of the things that I’ve learned about fats when on my fitness journey. Fats are an important macronutrient when trying to reach fitness goals. They are responsible for producing energy, controlling hunger, helping with hormones, helping with inflammation, forming our cell membranes, and so much more. In this post, I will talk a little bit about the different kinds of fats and also talk about how fats have been an important part of my weight loss journey and are an important part of becoming Routinely Fit.
What are the Different Types of Fats?
There are four types of fats.
Here are the four major dietary fats:
- polyunsaturated fats
- monounsaturated fats
- saturated fats
- trans fats
There are two types of Unsaturated Fats which are Polyunsaturated Fats and Monounsaturated Fats. Unsaturated fats are what are considered ‘good’ fats. Polyunsaturated fats contain Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Some foods Polyunsaturated fats are found in include salmon, nuts, and corn oil. Some foods that have monounsaturated fats are olive oil and avocado.
Then there is Saturated Fats and Trans Fats which are commonly called “bad’ fats.
Why are Fats so Important when reaching fitness goals?
Having enough ‘good’ fats in a diet aid in many important parts of reaching a fitness goal. No need to overdo it but getting enough ‘good’ fats in a diet can be a real game changer. Let me list some of the benefits fats have.
- Forms the outer part of cell membrane
- Helps with hormones. Which are huge in getting stronger, building muscle, and daily function.
- Helps body absorb and transport fat-soluble vitamins
- Provides energy
- Helps with food flavor
- Helps with satiety
How to calculate fats into calories for tracking
- 1 gram of fat = 9 calories
As you can see, there are more calories in one gram of fat than in protein and carbs. It is for this reason; fats are called the most calorie dense macronutrient.
Summary
Fats are very important when it comes to being Routinely Fit and reaching fitness goals. Be sure to have enough “healthy’ and ‘good’ fats daily in order to reach fitness goals.
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