The word fat has been a negative word when used in the context of the western diet. Fats perform a wide range of vital functions in the human body and is one of the three required building blocks of the human diet, along with proteins and carbohydrates. Among their numerous vital functions, consumption of healthy essential fatty acids helps to keep the hair shiny, nails strong and protect the eyes from disease.
Brain tissue contains a high concentration of fatty acids and is particularly high in essential fatty acids which can be sourced from fish and seeds. Keeping up adequate levels of this nutrient is important in maintaining brain function and is vital to brain development in infants. Side tracking and talking from personal experience with my own kids, it's not always easy to get kids to eat the right stuff. I sneakily buy crackers with sesame and poppy seeds on, and my little boy loves them.
Another interesting fact - Essential fatty acids are proven to help reduce the symptoms of PMS and menopause, particularly gamma-linoleic acid, found in evening primrose oil. Fats are also converted into prostaglandin, a hormone that regulates many important functions in the body, such as nerve transmission, heart function and fluid balance.
Another positive....!....Layers of fat are deposited inside the body, forming a protective covering for the body's vital organs, cushioning them from damage and physical shock.
Fat-free eating does not ensure weight loss. Fat in foods delivers a feeling of satiety, the sense that we have had enough to eat. If there is no fat in a meal, we don't feel full up as quickly and therefore tend to eat more calories!
Omega-3 essential fatty acids thins your blood and helps to lower the risk of having a stroke. This is because these fats actually reduce the 'stickiness' of the blood. Your blood vessels use polyunsaturated fats to provide the flexibility that allows them to absorb the pressure generated every time your heart beats. Without that flexibility, hardening of the arteries would occur.
Fats are also required for waterproofing the skin's surface. An adequate intake of essential fatty acids can also prevent skin problems such as eczema.
These are just some of the roles that fat play in the body; there are still more benefits to be gained! Another good thing too....it generates heat...Brill for the Winter period!!
Happy eating everyone, but remember to eat sensibly.



