Nutritional Series - Fatty Acids

There are 3 different types of saturated fatty acids. Long chain, short chain, and medium chain fatty acids. Why should you care?...because our bodies respond to and metabolize each fatty acid differently depending on its size. THIS IS A CONTROVERSIAL SUBJECT. Most of us automatically think to stay away from anything that says "fat," however...some do not have a negative effect on cholesterol and help to protect against heart disease as well as lower the risk of both atherosclerosis and heart disease. Which type you say?...Medium chain fatty acids!

Here is the break down: Short Chain Fatty Acids- helps colon health and feeds healthy bacteria (butter/tropical fats) Medium Chain Fatty Acids- energy!..and anti-viral, bacterial and fungal (coconut oil and breast milk)

Long Chain Fatty Acids- Build Cell membranes and Fluidity (fish, cocoa, seeds, nuts, vegetable oils) So as you can see, fats are good and beneficial for us IN MODERATION!!! They also balance our blood sugar so we aren't over eating and they are required in absorption of important vitamins like A,D,E,and K. Here are some ideas (try to buy organically and Raw as possible) - 1. Nuts/Seeds 2. Fish 3. Coconut/Coconut Oil 4. Cocoa 5. Raw Butter 6. Avocado 7. Olive Oil Things to stay away from: 1. Highly refined and processed 2. Soy, Safflower, Sunflower, Cottonseed oils (vegetable oils) 3. any Transfats! SOURCES: www.hailmerry.com, coconut research center