Fat has been considered a dietary no-no for decades but times have changed with new research proving that polyunsaturated fats are beneficial for your health. So with this in mind, the team from Flora have taken a look at foods that are high in healthy fats that your body needs but cannot produce on its own.
Eggs – Eggs were once slated by the health industry due to their high cholesterol content. However, new studies have shown that cholesterol consumption is not necessarily bad for you. The liver already naturally produces cholesterol and actually produces less of it when you consume it in your diet. This is to ensure that your levels remain balanced. In fact, studies show that consuming eggs reduces your risk of a stroke. So when next you have an egg, enjoy it! It’s good for most people, in moderation of course.
Avocado – This much-loved fruit is comprised of 77% fats and is high in oleic acid, which is a fatty acid, also found in olive oil. According to a new study, people who eat avos actually weigh less and have a lower BMI than those who don’t.
Nuts – Almonds, walnuts and macadamias are full of healthy fats and are loaded with protein. Similar to the avocado, people who eat nuts tend to be healthier than those who don’t, and have been proven to lower the risk of diseases like Type 2 Diabetes and heart disease. But remember, you can have too much of a good thing. Nuts are packed with energy so portion control is important, so our advice is to try to stick to eating only a handful a day.
Flora – A healthy margarine, like Flora’s range of spreads are full of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids as well as vitamins A, E and D which are all essential for heart health. Their mission is to make the world’s hearts healthier and considers heart disease, Africa’s hidden epidemic. With 1 in 3 men and 1 in 4 women in South Africa at risk of cardiovascular disease before the age of 60 years, Flora is an easy way to include more good fats in your diet to offset your risk of heart disease in the long run.
Real Plain Full-Fat or Low Fat Sugar-Free Yoghurt – Not only is this tasty stuff full of probiotics that aid in digestive health but it can also fight heart disease, high blood pressure and obesity.
For heart-healthy recipes to encourage healthy eating in your family, browse through our recipes section.
