Many of us have been trained to opt for low-fat foods over high-fat foods—from the craze of fat-free dressings, experts claiming eating fats will make you gain weight to counting your calorie intake. So no wonder that we’re all cautious when it comes to re-introducing healthy fat intake into our diets. Today, we’re sharing some top health-related reasons on why adding healthy fats to your diet is important, as well as some tasty recipes or staples to add to your next grocery run.

Healthy Fat Intake is Good for Your Heart.

First off—let’s get on the same page for the phrase “healthy fats.” They are typically referred to as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. In a number of studies, healthy fats have been linked to reduce cardiovascular disease. This reason alone is one that should make you want to add healthy fat intake back into your diet.

Healthy Fats Help You Absorb Nutrients.

Healthy fats are a crucial part of nutrient absorption. Many vitamins, including A, D, E and K, need fat for absorption and storage in the body. Without fat in your diet, you cannot properly absorb these vital nutrients, which can lead to vitamin deficiencies.

Healthy Fats Can Help Lower Cholesterol.

Study after study has shown that healthy fats will reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol while raising “good” HDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is usually the culprit when it comes to clogging arteries. Adding healthy fat intake into your diet can also benefit insulin and blood sugar levels.

Healthy Fats Can Help you Lose Weight.

Yep, you read it correctly. Eating healthy fats in place of high, starchy carbs and sugars will keep you feeling full longer and regulates blood-sugar levels (say goodbye to sugar crashes).

This information does not give you free reign to load up on fried food and burgers. The source of your fat is extremely important. When you’re at the grocery store or eating out, look for foods high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat.

Healthy Fat Food Examples:

• Nuts and Nut Butters
• Ground Flax Seed
• Avocado
• Coconut Oil
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Salmon, other fatty fish

Healthy Fat Food Recipe Ideas:

• Paleo Chicken Curry Recipe
• Lemon Garlic Baked Salmon
• Fab Four Smoothie
• Easy, Balanced Breakfast

So there you have it—the big fat truth on healthy fat intake. If you have further questions regarding healthy fats, feel free to talk to your FAST trainer or speak to your healthcare provider. We hope this helps you better understand the benefits of healthy fats and how you can start to re-introduce them into your diet.