Fats: The good and the bad!

I'm big on fat. Yep - that's right. I LOVE oil. Oil for the body when I do bodywork, when I cook in the kitchen, and also on myself. 

Oil - we take it in because, like a car, our bodies literally cannot function without it. I like to joke with my clients that when someone calls you a 'fat head' say, "YES!! YES!!" Because that's what your brain mostly is: Fat! So it's important that we eat the best ones and that we massage the best ones onto and into our bodies!!

Traditionally, Canola oil has been one of the go-to oils to use in the kitchen. Times have changed! Here is why Canola oil actually is NOT as great as you may have thought. Did you know that the original name for Canola oil is Rapeseed oil? Besides the fact that contemporary Canola oil is refined using one of the main components of gasoline (hexane) and the high probability that it will be rancid before it ever makes its way to your pantry shelf, there is one very BIG no-no -- it is genetically modified! 

So, what should you be using instead?

My top favorite oils to cook with are:

1. Coconut Oil: This all-around superstar contains short-term medium-chain saturated fatty acids (MCFA's), which are a "healthy" form saturated fat - our body metabolizes these fats in the liver, immediately converting them into energy (fuel for the brain and muscle function) rather than storing them as fat. Among the MANY amazing qualities this yummy oil boasts, it is known to speed up metabolism and ease digestion!

2. Organic Olive Oil: The health benefits of olive oil include treatment for colon, breast cancer, diabetes, heart problems, arthritis, high cholesterol, weight loss, metabolism, digestion, aging and cancer. Olive oil has been around for centuries and remains an amazing addition to our diets. The type IS important - choose Extra Virgin Olive Oil to purchase for your kitchen.

When you use oils to prepare your favorite dishes, make sure not to cook at a high heat! Oils, when heated improperly, can turn toxic. Many oils are fairly sensitive to high heat - make sure to pay attention to what you are using and know the proper temperatures to go by. 

Don't deprive your body of what it needs! Good fats are truly necessary to our existence - learn more about your favorites and how to use them properly, and go forth as a 'fat head'!