Healthy fats are essential to our overall health and an important part of our Portion Rx. In addition to stabilizing blood sugar levels for all day energy, healthy fats support brain and heart health and reduce our risk for disease. Some of our favorite sources of healthy fats are cooking oils. Read on to learn more about a few of our favorite oils!
1. Coconut Oil: This high heat oil contains properties that help ease digestion, support the immune system, and rev your metabolism. If you’re still not convinced that coconut oil is a great option, try roasting a pan of veggies at 400 degrees in a tablespoon of melted coconut oil and pinch of salt. Coconut oil makes veggies taste even more sweet (roasted sweet potatoes are my favorite!), and you won’t have to beg your kids to clean their plates.
2. Ghee: You may be surprised to learn that ghee is clarified butter. Rich and flavorful, this antioxidant packed oil helps our body absorb nutrients and vitamins, aiding in the digestive process. Like coconut oil, it also strengthens the immune system and boost the metabolism. You’ll feel sated and energized for hours after consumption. Try using ghee as a replacement for olive oil when cooking at high temperatures.
3. Olive Oil: This oil is best used when cooking at medium to low temperatures only (no frying). High in antioxidants, olive oil supports healthy cholesterol levels. In addition, this oil can reduce inflammation in the body and decrease the risk for developing a cardiovascular disease. We love to use olive oil as the base for salad dressings and veggie dips. When purchasing it, make sure that the oil is cloudy (unfiltered) and yellow in color for the highest antioxidant levels.
Do you have questions about which fats to avoid and how to add more healthy fats into your diet? Ask us in the questions below!
