According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), “The UK is currently eating 20% more saturated fat than the Government recommends” (Feb 09). Future Fit Training Nutrition Tutor, Helen Sullivan offers an in-depth view of why we need to limit our intake of saturated fats, and advises us of some healthy alternatives.
Saturated fats are the fats found mainly in animal products, for example the white fat surrounding bacon and beef, or in meat products such as sausages – this fat is solid at room temperature. Unsaturated fat comes mainly from plant products such as sunflower oil, avocados, olive oil, nuts and some fish, and is generally liquid at room temperature.
Public Myths
Research recently revealed that nearly half the UK population thought it was okay to eat as much saturated fat as they liked if they took regular exercise, were not overweight or ate lots of fruit and vegetables (FSA, 2009). People tend to be more concerned about cancer and obesity than cardiovascular disease (CVD), even though this is responsible for 1 in 3 premature deaths in the UK (FSA ’06). CVD covers all diseases affecting the heart and circulatory system – it includes coronary heart disease, angina, heart attack and stroke. Coronary heart disease is caused by a gradual build up of fatty deposits on the walls of your coronary arteries.
People who exercise, who are not overweight or who eat their 5-a-day still need to watch the amount of saturated fats they consume, as they can cause serious health problems. One barrier to this change is that almost 2 thirds (63%) of people think that it costs more to buy healthier foods! - More cost effective healthy tips coming soon. Make sure you catch tomorrow's blog for more on saturated fats.
Until Next Time.
Stay Healthy,
John K Russell
Personal Trainer Cheltenham
Personal Trainer Gloucester
www.nomoregym.co.uk
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