Page 66 - The Skinny On Your Diet Plan

Most dietary fat sources are made up of some combination of

saturated, polyunsaturated, and monounsaturated fatty acids. For example,

while most people consider eggs and red meat to be foods rich in saturated
fat, eggs actually contain more monounsaturated fatty acids than saturated

fatty acids. Indeed, 39% of the fat in eggs is saturated, while 43% comes
from monounsaturated fat, and 18% from polyunsaturated fat. Beef contains

55% saturated fat, 40% monounsaturated fat, and 4% polyunsaturated fat.
Overall health is determined by the balance of fatty acids consumed. For

example, saturated fat appears to be fine when refined carbohydrate intake is

low and when a healthy intake of unsaturated fat is also present. Just don’t
combine a diet low in unsaturated fat with one high in saturated fat, sugar,

and refined carbohydrates (which, unfortunately, characterizes much of our
modern North American diet).

A deficiency of essential fatty acids – Omega 3 and Omega 6 – could
cause cognitive/brain development problems, vision impairment, skin

problems, and delayed healing. There are also some links between Omega 3
fatty acids and mental health, so a fatty acid deficiency could lead to

depression or other negative feelings. However, your individual response
could be different. If you suspect a health problem or deficiency in certain

nutrients, please see your primary health care provider (doctor, naturopath,

etc.). They can help unravel the complexity of your physiology.

Trans fats also need to be mentioned here. Trans fats are created
through hydrogenation and are quite dangerous. A diet high in trans fats has

been associated with a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease and lymphoma.
Even a single meal with a high trans-fat content can diminish blood vessel

function and elasticity, which can contribute to the progression of heart

disease. But, when consuming a diet based on natural, unprocessed, whole

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