Foods high in fat tend to get a bad rap. While it’s true that some fat is bad for you, it’s best to first understand that there are different kinds of fat. Healthy fats are usually monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats – meaning, these come with benefits rather than a burden. Monounsaturated fats are among the healthiest as they can help with weight loss, reduce the risk of heart disease and decrease inflammation. Polyunsaturated fats are a type of dietary fats that our bodies need for brain function and cell growth. So what foods do we need to eat to make sure we are getting in all the good fats we need? Well, here’s a list of six healthy high-fat foods that will make your taste buds and your body happy.
Avocados
Avocados have gone from the unsung hero to one of the fruits with the most praise. Although they may be an extra dollar or two to add to your meal, avocados are a healthy addition to your daily diet. Avocados help lower inflammation, which comes in handy by protecting you from cardiovascular disease. Plus, they are a great source of fiber and potassium!
Whole Eggs
Eggs are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and protein, making them a healthy little snack or meal. Whole eggs, as compared to just egg whites, contain choline, which is a B vitamin that is important to the brain, nervous system, and cardiovascular system. Plus, they can make you feel full for a longer period of time, which will help you resist those sugary treats in the office.
Nuts
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, pistachios, and macadamia nuts contain a lot of healthy fats in each bite. They are a great plant-based source of protein and each is high in fiber. Each nut has a little something different to offer. Almonds, for example, are the richest in Vitamin E and pistachios contain carotenoids, which are important for your eye health. Overall, nuts are a great snack to have since they are easy to carry around and can please many people’s taste buds.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil may surprise many for containing healthy fats, but they are in fact a great option for when you are cooking. Fat found in coconuts are much different fat compared to many other foods. Many studies have found that the fat found in coconuts actually help fight Alzheimer’s disease as well as heart risks.
Fish
Fish such as salmon, trout, and herring are all high-fat foods that are actually great for you. Loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, these fish are prone to make you healthier and happier. Those who eat these fatty fish tend to have a lower risk of heart disease, depression, and dementia.
Dark Chocolate
Surprisingly, dark chocolate is among the list of foods that contain healthy fats. You just have to be careful when choosing your snack. Look on the label and choose the one that contains the most cocoa. Many brands will sweeten up the flavorings by adding sugar, try to avoid those options. If you have dark chocolate that doesn’t contain a bunch of added sugar and has the right amount of cocoa, you’ll be doing your body a favor which includes antioxidants that fight disease and help protect your
cholesterol level.
