FAT PHOBIA -

There is a current fad in the food business world that purports foods to be
"lite" or "low fat." Yet so many Americans are overweight and the numbers
are steadily growing both in children and adults. So what gives ?

Your body needs a certain amount of fat for good health. Fat is essential
for an effective immune system, healthy skin, blood clotting and even the
health of your nervous system. Fats play a major role in the formation of
hormones. Fats are important building blocks for normal growth and energy.

The fats that play these crucial roles are called essential fatty acids,
specially omega 6 and omega 3 fatty acids. Most of us meet our need for
omega 6 fats but fall short on getting enough omega 3's. Even medical
research now suggests that diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and even
arthritis may be linked to a diet deficient in omega 3 essential fats.

Eating fish at least once a week supplies essential omega 3 fats, as does
snacking on nuts, especially raw almonds and walnuts.

Every day you need somewhere around 5 - 8 grams of essential fats,
somewhere around 45 - 72 calories worth.

There is little worry about essential fats being deposited as fat. Your
body will much more likely store carbohydrates, especially simple sugars, as
it will fat !