Healthy fats are an integral component of the keto diet. They provide energy for you to achieve ketosis quickly and sustain it over time.
Healthy fatty acids can be found naturally in food sources like nuts, avocados and salmon. They consist of both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats; monounsaturated ones typically solidify when chilled while staying liquid at room temperature; they’re frequently found in vegetable oils, nuts and avocados.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil contains both saturated and medium chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are quickly processed by the liver and provided energy directly to the brain without needing insulin injections – helping accelerate metabolism and burn more fat quickly. Furthermore, lauric acid found in coconut oil has been proven to reduce cholesterol levels while supporting heart health – making this oil an excellent way to replace butter or vegetable oils when cooking.
However, olive oil has long been maligned due to its high content of saturated fats. While saturated fats are essential components of our bodies’ nutrition and should be consumed moderately; experts advise limiting our daily saturated fat consumption to 10% of total caloric intake – approximately 20 grams for someone eating 2000 daily calories.
Coconut oil is not only a healthy source of fats, but it’s also low in carbs and boasts an extremely high smoke point – perfect for frying or sauteing food! For optimal quality and taste, organic and unrefined versions should always be chosen over refined versions that contain dried coconut flesh that has been bleached and chemically treated before being refined further.
Olive oil is another keto-friendly choice that contains monounsaturated fats with a high smoke point, making it suitable for salad dressings and sauces alike. Olive oil also boasts abundant quantities of vitamin E and polyphenol antioxidants which may protect against cardiovascular disease as well as other illnesses.
Fatty fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, known for reducing inflammation and helping prevent metabolic syndrome – an accumulation of abdominal fat characterized by abdominal fat accumulation – as well as contributing to brain health by decreasing dementia risk and depression risk.
When selecting fatty fish for consumption, wild-caught salmon and trout are considered healthiest; other healthy choices include sardines, herring and mackerel. Farm-raised varieties could contain harmful toxins.
Olive oil
The keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb eating plan that relies on fat as its primary energy source. It primarily prioritizes saturated and monounsaturated fats that are good for your heart while limiting trans fats which increase your risk of heart disease – these include margarine, shortening and vegetable oils containing trans fats which increase LDL or “bad cholesterol”, while simultaneously decreasing good LDL (high density lipoprotein).
Extra virgin olive oil is the ideal oil to incorporate into a ketogenic diet, made from first pressing olives and boasting high concentrations of healthy fats. Extra virgin olive oil provides many health advantages including lower risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer as well as being high in antioxidants; plus it boasts an impressive smoke point rating and can withstand heat well for cooking purposes.
Coconut oil is another nutritious addition to a keto diet, as it is abundant with medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). MCTs are processed differently from other fats, helping you reach ketosis more quickly. Coconut oil also boasts antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties and provides lauric acid – which has demonstrated antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits – making it an invaluable asset.
Addition of healthy fats to your keto diet can help keep you feeling full and satisfied while helping maintain muscle mass and burn more efficiently. But it is essential that these fats be balanced out by other sources of protein and carbohydrates; select meals which include proteins, whole grains, fruits vegetables as well as healthy fats for maximum benefit.
When selecting fats for the keto diet, strive to obtain as many of your calories from monounsaturated fats – found in olives, avocados and some nuts – as possible. You should limit consumption of polyunsaturated fats found in vegetable oils and fish products because these types of dietary fat aren’t as heart healthy and could increase your risk for cardiovascular disease.
Dairy products
Dairy products contain saturated fats that provide essential calcium, vitamin D and other essential nutrients, while being low in carbs and offering protein sources. Unfortunately, dairy can sometimes be difficult on our digestive systems so to ensure an easy keto diet experience avoid any processed or enhanced dairy with added sugar; opt instead for full-fat versions that come without an abundance of additional sweeteners such as yogurts and creams that are free from additional sugar content or those from grass-fed cows if possible.
Butter is an ideal dairy option that supports keto diets. Packed with both short-chain and long-chain fatty acids, as well as calcium and selenium. However, be careful to select high quality butter that comes from local farms that specialize in organic grass fed butter production.
Heavy cream is another fantastic addition to a ketogenic diet that’s suitable for creating sauces and soups, rich in dietary fiber and providing vitamins A, D, and E. Furthermore, its flavor makes it the perfect pairing with coffee or tea; but beware: natural trans fats present could increase low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels while simultaneously decreasing good cholesterol levels.
If you’re allergic to dairy, there are a variety of keto-friendly alternatives that are low in carbs and suitable for the keto diet. Macadamia nut milk boasts the lowest carb count per cup while soy, almond and cashew milk also qualify. Furthermore, you could use ghee as cooking oil since it meets both requirements – providing safe keto eating along with high smoke point ratings!
Cheese is an ideal dairy choice on the keto diet, boasting both saturated fats and dietary fiber. Plus, its abundance of omega-3 fatty acids will help you reach both fat and protein goals more easily. Enjoy cheese on eggs, bunless burgers, crackers or bread for optimal keto eating pleasure – and try finding cheese made from grass-fed cattle as this will be healthier both for yourself and its creator.
Fatty fish
The ketogenic diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial fats that can reduce inflammation. They are also great for brain health and helping lower cholesterol levels. Aim to consume two servings of fish every week from either wild-caught salmon or high-quality supplements tested to ensure they do not contain rancid oil.
Fish is an excellent source of protein and doesn’t contain saturated fat, which increases your risk for heart disease. The American Heart Association advises incorporating various kinds of fish into a balanced diet, including oily varieties like salmon and mackerel. Fried options should be avoided in favor of grilling, broiled, or poaching options for best results.
Fatty fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, commonly referred to as “good fats”. Omega-3s play an integral part in brain and cardiovascular health by helping reduce inflammation and protecting against chronic diseases. Fatty fish is also an excellent source of protein; popular choices for eating include salmon, mackerel and tuna.
Safflower and sunflower oils are two healthy fats you should use sparingly; these healthy oils can be found in many processed foods; however, these inflammatory oils should be replaced by olive and avocado oils instead.
Avoid trans fats, which are unhealthy and can raise cholesterol levels. Trans fats can be found in margarine, shortening, and some forms of cooking oil as well as fast food and fried foods.
The Keto diet is a high-fat, low-carb eating plan designed to help individuals lose weight and improve their health. It may even aid with autoimmune disorders, depression and Alzheimer’s disease. However, omega-6 fatty acids should be limited since these may increase cholesterol levels and cause inflammation.
The Keto diet is an innovative eating approach that emphasizes eating a diet rich in healthy fats while still including plenty of vegetables and whole grains for balance and physical activity. If embarking upon this path, it may be helpful to speak to a registered dietician as part of your preparations for success.