Sometimes fats get a bad rap. For years, people on weight-loss journeys have been taught to avoid them because they are fattening and cause weight gain. The truth is, our bodies need fats, but we need the right kinds. Not all fats are created equal, and there are healthy and not-so-healthy ones. Today, we will talk about some healthy ways to incorporate healthy fat into your diet.

If you eat a diet of 1500-2000 calories per day, you should typically eat about 100-150 grams of fats per day. Good fats help you stay fuller longer and can be beneficial for weight loss. You just need to make sure the fats you are consuming are good fats, not trans fats. 

Good fats: 

– Oils, like olive and avocado oil

– Nuts, like almonds and cashews

– Avocado

Fats to use sparingly:

– Butter

– Cheese

(these are high in saturated fat, so should be limited)

Avoid these fats:

– Trans fats 

– Fats found in processed foods (like chips and crackers)

Hint: If you’re wondering how much trans fats are in a product you are buying, be sure to check the label. The amount of trans fat should be listed!

The moral of the story is if you want to lose weight, you shouldn’t eliminate all fat from your diet. You just need to make sure you choose small amounts of beneficial, healthy fats that will nourish your body. Not all fat is truly fattening! 

If your teen or pre-teen would like to learn more about good foods that will fuel their bodies and help them feel better, please make an appointment at the Wellness Center at Progressive Pediatrics!

To make an appointment, please visit:https://progressivepediatrics.com/wellness/

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