Low fat diets became main stream FDA approved guidelines attempting to combat an increasing obese population. Obesity has in fact increased since the indoctrination of fat free and low fat foods. Some key issues regarding low fat diets are:
- Poor Vitamin Absorption. Vitamins A, E, D, K are fat soluble and must be taken with fat in order to be properly metabolically active. These vitamins are essential to immune system functioning, cell repair and functioning, proper blood clotting, and cell membrane functioning. They also maintain supple youthful looking skin. Without the proper amount of fat you could be at risk for deficiencies and imbalances.
- Increased inflammation. Omega 3,6,9 fatty acids are abundant in fat sources. These essential nutrients contribute to brain health and functioning. They provide key constituents for neurotransmitter production and aid in neural conduction. Deficiencies can lead to increased inflammation including cardiovascular disease and neurological degeneration. The research suggests that low consumption of Essential Fatty acids have high correlations with depression and other mood disorders.
- Higher risks for cardiovascular disease. Low fat foods often add higher levels of sodium and sugars in order to make things taste good. Current research supports that cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis is more closing linked with higher sugar consumption. Higher sugar consumption causing the body to release inflammatory markers that form plaques leading to clogged arteries. Higher sugar will cause greater release of insulin that will then rapidly store the sugar as fat. Increased sodium intake can cause the kidneys to work harder to maintain your blood pressure. This can eventually lead to higher blood pressure.
- Causes you to gain weight. Lower fat foods are higher in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates require less energy to break down to become metabolically active than fats. Carbohydrates are less filling and can attribute to overeating. The quicker the body breaks down the carbohydrates the faster it begins to store them as fat in order to maintain proper blood glucose levels. Fats are more complex and require more of your body’s energy to break down. They metabolize more slowly attributing to longer satiety and overall satisfaction.
- Poor hormone function. Inadequate fat intake will reduce the capacity to make hormones. Fats are transported to the liver that converts them into hormones. Testosterone is a key hormone for both men and woman. It maintains muscle mass, libido, and proper bone density. Thyroid hormones are in control of metabolism, bone growth and repair, and energy production.
Fats, play a huge role in the overall health and wellness of the body. It is clear in that lower fat foods are should not be a part of a healthy diet. Fight fat with fat and maintain healthy weight and body functioning.