Fats have been given an undeserved bad reputation. But the truth is, they aren’t all bad. In fact, some fats are not only health-promoting, but absolutely essential for your health and well-being. So, if the number on your scale is up, don’t blame fat. Blame the types of fat you’re consuming (and the all-too-tempting high-glycemic carbs).

THE TRUTH ABOUT FAT

1. Myth: All fats are created equal.
   Fact: Not true. Trans fats and some saturated fats are bad for you because they increase cholesterol levels and heart disease risks. Monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats, however, are good for you, lowering cholesterol and reducing heart disease risks.
2. Myth: Lowering the amount of fat you eat = better health.
   Fact: The combination of fats that you eat, rather than the total amount in your diet, is what counts when it comes to your cholesterol levels and overall health. The key is simply this: eat more good fats and less bad fats.
3. Myth: Fat-free foods = healthy foods.
   Fact: A “fat-free” label doesn’t mean you can eat all you want without consequences to your scale’s reading. Many fat-free foods are incredibly high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and calories: the culprits of weight gain.
4. Myth: Low-fat diet = weight loss.
   Fact: The obesity rates for Americans have doubled in the last 20 years, paralleling the low-fat diet trend. Hmmm. That should tell you something. Cutting calories and steering clear of sugary, processed foods is the recipe for weight loss. Fats can even help the weight loss process, as they are more filling and substantial and thus, have the power to curb carb cravings and prevent overeating.
5. Myth: All body fat is created equal.
   Fact: Where your fat accumulates matters. The health risks are greater if you tend to accumulate fat around your abdomen rather than the hips and thighs. This is because a lot of belly fat is stored deep below the skin surrounding the abdominal organs and liver, and is closely linked to insulin resistance and diabetes.

Don’t know your good fats from your bad fats? Greenville gym offers nutritional and weight loss counseling to help you develop healthy meal plans for fitness success. Connect with one of Greenville health center’s certified experts to create a nutrition program to complement your Greenville athletic club fitness and weight loss goals.