In today’s society we are told that saturated fat will harm us and cause a variety of health problems. So what do we do? We try to consume as little or none as possible. But go back for a second and ask, who makes saturated fat? The answer is God.
Saturated fat is a natural fat found in every living animal, fish, and dairy product on earth. It’s an essential fat that is needed for optimum health. That’s why in the past you would find people drinking milk, eating butter, and if you remember beef was also the number one choice for dinner in many homes and restaurants. Foods like pot roast, meatloaf, beef stew seem to be a thing of the past. So if were eating better, then why are more people sick now more than ever?
I think that saturated fats are very important! They are the key to having healthy hormone levels and one of best ways to strengthen the immune system.
Saturated fats differ from unsaturated fats because the molecules of saturated fat have only one single bond between carbon atoms. They come from animal meat, dairy products, and tropical plants they tend to be solid or semi-solid at room temperature, and are stable so they do not easily become rancid. Although they have received a bad rap, never underestimate the importance of saturated fats.
Saturated fatty acids constitute at least 50% of the cell membranes. They give cells their necessary stiffness and integrity.
Saturated fats play a vital role in the health of bones. For calcium to be effectively incorporated into the skeletal structure, at least 50% of dietary fats should be saturated.
Saturated fats lower lipoprotein. A substance in the blood that indicates proneness to heart disease.
Saturated fats protect the liver from alcohol and other toxins.
Saturated fats enhance the immune system.
Saturated fats are needed for the proper utilization of essential fatty acids. Specifically, omega-3 essential fatty acids are better retained in the tissue when the diet is rich in saturated fats.
I’m sure a lot of you are saying, but my doctor told me to stay away from foods that contain saturated fat because they say it contributes to high cholesterol. I feel that high cholesterol is caused from consuming large amounts of chemicals that are in the foods we eat on a daily basis such as growth hormones, pesticides and antibiotics. Try to always eat organic if possible. Remember, God did not make growth hormones, pesticides and all other man made toxins.
Also, don’t forget to exercise. Walking, stretching, and keeping a positive attitude is one of your best weapons against disease. After all, God made us to live happy and healthy lives. That’s why I feel it’s most important to use all the resources he blessed us with naturally on earth. Remember: If man made it,lose it. If God made it, use it.
Anthony Catanzaro is a fitness model and personal trainer. For more writings from Anthony Catanzaro go to www.anthonycatanzaro.com. *Photo used with permission.
