Fats, Fats, Essential Fats
I’m going to make this simple: in order to maintain proper weight loss you need to eat fats, well essential fats that is.
The term essential fats also known as essential fatty acids (EFA) means we need to consume them from our diet because the body cannot produce them on its own.
EFA’s are essential for
- Formation of healthy cell membranes
- Keep the brain and nervous system functioning efficiently
- Proper thyroid and adrenal functioning
- Regulation of blood pressure, liver function, immune and inflammatory responses
- My favourite one – crucial for the transport and breakdown of cholesterol
- Support healthy skin and hair
- Boost energy levels
Sources of EFA’s
Omega 3 (ALA, EPA, DHA)
- Walnuts
- Salmon (be careful to not eat too much of this because excess amounts can give you mercury poisoning) 1-2 serves of 150g of oily fish per week is ideal
- Ground flaxseed (flax meal)
- Dark green veggies
- Tofu
- Chia seeds
Omega 6 (LA, GLA) (needed in smaller amounts)
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Grains
- Legumes
- Olive oil
TRANS FAT: THE NASTY FAT
Since this type of fat is synthetic it should be avoided or eliminated from your diet completely! Look for packaging that says ‘partially hydrogenated oils’ or ‘hydrogenated oils’ – in Australia there is no law for them to put this on there packaging but trans fats are commonly found in some margarines and junk foods. Opt for margarines that contain mono or polyunsaturated fats such as one with an olive oil base.

