If We're Cutting Out All Fat, Why Are Americans Getting Fatter?
Since the 'fat-free' craze began, statistics show people in
developed countries such as the USA, UK and Australia, have
grown fatter and fatter! Just because a food is fat-free doesn't
mean it's energy free or calorie free. If you are trying to cut
out all forms of fat from your diet, you may be risking your
health.
Although we've been taught to think of fat as the culprit in the
battle of the bulge, clearly this is only part of the whole diet
picture. Many fat-free foods are actually very high in sugar and
carbohydrate calories. These calories, when eaten in excess (or
more than your body requires) are simply converted into...you
guessed it, fat!
Ironically, in order to burn fat and lose weight you need a
certain amount of good quality fat. That's why a sensible eating
plan designed to help you lose weight will contain fish and
olive oil. Bad fats include trans-fatty acids or hydrogenated
fat. Good fats are mono-saturated and polyunsaturated fats
containing omega-3 and omega-3 fatty acids which help to lower
cholesterol, improve eyesight and boost brain power.
Fad diets usually overemphasize one particular food or food type
or eliminate complete food groups. They violate the first
principle of good nutrition, which is to eat a balanced diet
that includes a variety of foods. There are no superfoods that
cause you to lose weight. No one type of food has all the
nutrients you need for good health.
Fad diets also violate a second important principle of good
nutrition - eating should be enjoyable. Where a diet is
monotonous and boring, it's almost impossible to stay on them
for long enough to lose the weight and stabilize at a healthy
weight. Losing weight is all about excellence in nutrition. When
you have a balanced approach and eat wisely from all food groups
you will lose the weight and enjoy the journey!