Finally, a nutritionally sound article in a health magazine!

With so many fad diets and skinny cover models, it was nice to read an article on the importance of fat in a diet. A writer for Women's Health Magazine, wrote a nutritionally solid article, complete with reasons why fat is important, why low-fat diets aren't so great for you, and what fats to avoid.

There are various reasons to consume fat. This article mentions how fat is necessary for certain nutrients to bind to and be absorbed by the body. In addition to being a necessity for health, fat can satisfy hunger and without it, may leave you snacking more throughout the day. This article points out that although Americans consumed a lower percentage of calories from fat in 2000 compared to 1971, total calories consumed increased by more than 300. One point I found interesting to note, is the glucose stabilizing effect of meals containing both fats and carbs. The article states that this combination may prevent spikes and dips in the sugar levels in blood, which can cause hunger. The various types of fats are also discussed, including saturated, polyunsaturated, monounsaturated, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids. The benefits of these fats are briefly discussed, as are examples and serving sizes. This article did a great job of describing the importance of fat, as well as providing specific examples. I am happy to read an article that I find to be nutritionally helpful and not strictly based on weight loss. Kudos Women's Health Magazine!