By Student
The America that I grew up in was obsessed with changing the inherent make up of fat and created fat substitutes that were supposed to be “better” for us. This was the era of margarine and substances like Crisco. Because they were “plant based” and contained no animal by products, they theoretically did not create the arteriosclerosis and coronary diseases that natural animal fats theoretically did. This little theory backfired when it was discovered that the hydrogenated oils that made up these “new” fats were causing even more heart disease than the natural animal fats.
Then came the era of low/no fat and the theory that all fats were “bad”. This was fueled by the idea that skinny bodies were more attractive. Fats naturally contain more kilocalories and Americans were “watching their weight”. Everyone was counting calories and fats were to be eaten sparingly. This also coincided with an upswing of eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, anxiety, increased stress, immune disorders and adrenal dysfunction. Ulcers and digestive disorders also became more prevalent.
What Americans did not know at the time was that fats serve as protection and lubrication for all bodily systems. Fats coat the nervous system and make neurotransmission effective. They lubricate the joints, protect the stomach and serve to carry vital nutrients that nourish the building of new tissues. They calm and pacify the mind.
Now, there is a resurgence of dietary fats being added to the American diet. The new Keto and Paleo diets include more fats and proteins and low/no carbs. Ghee is becoming a household word and is now found at Costco (in large containers of course)! Butter is also back in favor as is coconut, olive and avocado oils. And, people are losing weight with less cravings and anxiety than in the past.
Unfortunately, most of these diets are heavy in all types of animal meats which comes with its own list of negative issues. Abuse of the Earth to allow for the grazing of animals and the emissions of animal farming are contributing to global warming. The animals are loaded with hormones and chemicals and are stressed and treated poorly in life and at death. All of this is ingested by those that eat meat.
So the new era of “fat eating” also comes with its growing pains and learning curves and what seems to be emerging is a new healthier understanding of the need for fat in our diets.
