Processed foods can be a convenient option when you don't have time to cook a proper meal, but they are loaded with fat. You are also putting your health at risk if you consume these kinds of foods often.
Excessive amounts of fat in your diet can cause the following issues:
* Obesity
* Heart disease and related issues, like high blood pressure
* Metabolic syndrome
* Type 2 diabetes
* Fatty liver disease
* Stroke
A study published in the journal Cell Metabolism found ultra-processed foods, like muffins, sugary yoghurts, canned foods and processed meats, can significantly increase the number of calories you consume and the weight you gain compared to a diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables. "It’s a substantial amount of calories, and it did translate over a relatively short period of time into some substantial weight and body fat changes," Kevin Hall, the lead author of the study and an obesity expert at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, told a news portal. Adding, "I was surprised by the magnitude of the changes we saw."
To maintain good health, you need to stay clear of unhealthy fats and add healthy fats to your diet. Here are some of the kinds of fats you should add to your diet:
* Monounsaturated fatty acids: You will find this type of fat in cooking oils that are plant-based. You will also find it in foods like avocado and coconut.
* Polyunsaturated fatty acids: Fats like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are found in a range of foods. Certain vegetables and marine products are rich sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is important to get a healthy amount of these fats as they help our bodies function in many ways.These fats play a huge role when it comes to our bodies' immune system, nervous and cardiovascular systems.
* Saturated fats: Meat, eggs and dairy products contain saturated fats. Foods that contain this kind of fat should be eaten on rare occasions as it can increase cholesterol levels.
