Let’s talk about the powerhouse that is dietary fat and how it can seriously level up your fitness game. Trust me, this is stuff you’ll want to know!

 

The take-away: For optimal hormone balance, make sure you get the right amount of dietary fats!!!  If you need help with this, get in touch!

 

1. Raw Material for Hormones:

• • Fats are a fundamental component of hormones. That is, they serve as the structural backbone for many hormones.  Not enough fats – not enough hormones.

 

2. Cholesterol:

• • Yup, you read that right! Cholesterol, the unsung hero, is a precursor to some major hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Embrace it, you actually need that cholesterol!

 

3. Fat-Soluble Vitamins:

1. • Certain vitamins like vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K are fat-soluble, meaning they require fat for absorption. And these vitamins play key roles in hormone regulation. For instance, vitamin D is crucial for maintaining calcium balance, which is essential for muscle function, nerve signalling, and bone health.

4. Steroid Hormones:

• • We’re talking about the big shots – sex hormones, cortisol, and aldosterone. They all come from cholesterol and they control metabolism, immunity, stress, and electrolytes. These hormones have wide-ranging effects on metabolism, immune function, stress response, and electrolyte balance.  They’re a big deal!

 

5. Insulin Sensitivity:

1. • Did you know that insulin is a hormone too?
   • Dietary fat composition can influence insulin sensitivity. Healthy fats like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can improve insulin sensitivity, which is crucial for blood sugar regulation and prevention of conditions like type 2 diabetes.

6. Regulation of Appetite and Satiety Hormones:

• • Fats are like your best friend when it comes to feeling satisfied. They slow down digestion and keep you feeling full. Say hello to ghrelin (the hunger hormone) and leptin (the satisfaction superstar)!

 

7. Thyroid Function:

• • Your thyroid is the boss of metabolism. It needs its fair share of fat to keep things running smoothly. Don’t skimp on the good fats!

 

8. Inflammation and Immune Function:

• • Omega-3 fatty acids are like the Avengers of the fat world. They fight inflammation and boost your immune system. Find them in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts!

 

9. Regulation of Stress Hormones:

• • Stress is no joke, and neither are essential fatty acids like omega-3s. They’ve got your back when it comes to keeping cortisol (the stress hormone) in check.

 

So, here’s the deal: If you’re serious about crushing your fitness goals – whether it’s getting lean, building muscle, or just feeling amazing – don’t skimp on the good fats. They’re your secret weapon. Need some guidance? I’m here for you! Let’s chat and level up your nutrition game. 💪🥑

In our lunchBOX Gamified Nutrition Challenge, we focus an entire month to help you learn about and eat the right amount of dietary fats for your needs.

The science, the whys, and all the how-to’s… every day in a user-friendly and fun mobile app, so you can build the lifelong habits you need to build your best body, from the inside out.

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