Saturated Fats

Why Saturated Fats are Vital for Balancing Hormones

When it comes to weight loss or improving health, we generally focus on cutting calories or a power packed workout. Whereas, when it comes to health, hormones have a much greater impact than most people realise. Hormones in the body affect everything, from our weight to our bowel health, mood, skin condition, acne, bloating, PCOS, thyroid, ovulation, reproduction, pregnancy, fatigue, sleep disorders and the list goes on. Endocrine glands are responsible for secreting hormones, which are like the chemical messengers in the body. Hormones travel through the blood and control all the metabolic processes in the body. This is why balancing hormones is vital for our health.

 

When I consult my clients, I see hormonal disturbances in all age groups and as early as thirteen years of age. In the zest to lose weight, we have cut down on traditional fatty foods that have been part of our diets for generations. Over the years natural unrefined oils like desi ghee, coconut oils and mustard oils have been replaced by refined hydrogenated oils due to its economic appeal and longer shelf life. These oils are promoted daily on the basis of health claims. Our bodies are made up of natural substances and are not designed to consume man-made fats from vegetable oils.

The fat content in our body is saturated fat and only 3% coming from other types. This ratio is absolutely important to know for our health and well-being. Moreover, these new oils like canola, soybean are very high in Omega 6 fats and low in Omega 3. This imbalance affects our endocrine system and further creates hormonal disturbance.

So, let's add these saturated superfats back in your diet:

Coconut Oil

As we know now that the human body is made of natural saturated fats, we need to add it back into our diets. The medium chain fatty acids found in coconut oil do not raise blood sugar and reduces hypoglycemic symptoms. These fats do not circulate in the blood streams and are immediately used up for energy. Whereas vegetable oils depress thyroid functions, lowering metabolic active unlike coconut oil. The bio directional affect of coconut oil heals metabolic disorders, helping you to lose weight. The Journal ofIndian Medical Association has reported that since Indians have abandoned traditional oils - like coconut oils, mustard oil and pure ghee - the prevalence of type 2 diabetes have increased and is on the rise.

Pure Ghee

This prestigious golden elixir is rich in Vitamin K2 which builds hormones along with Vitamin A, D, E & K. Now we know the reason for the yummy tadkas in our dals that were not just adding flavour. Butter and ghee from organic sources support metabolism, digestion, immunity, thyroid function and gut health. So ditch the low fat diet for these saturated fats that are actually good for you. Vegetable oils disguised as healthy are only benefiting the commercial biggies. These oils are usually derived from genetically modified seeds and are highly processed and refined.

 

So go ahead and cook with coconut oil, which has a very high heat point, and slather your parathas with some ghee. These natural fats will balance hormones and speed up metabolism, which in turn will help you lose weight!

About the Author:Shilpa Arora ND is a renowned Health Practitioner, Nutritionist and certified Macrobiotic Health Coach. She has to her credit Doctorate in Natural Medicine. She is currently based in Delhi NCR region, successfully running her Nutrition Studio with individual consultations, offering life style programs supported by the most up-to-date clinical research.