Today, we’re talking FATS - “bad fats” to be exact. These include saturated and trans fats (hydrogenated oils) and can be found in animal products and fast and processed foods. We all know this stuff is bad for us from a waistline perspective, but its BAD, BAD, REALLY REALLY BAD from a brain health perspective too.As an aside, I’m not sure exactly how this post got tied in with bad 80s music references, but I’m just going to go with it.

“Bad fats” increase cholesterol, which can block arteries and slow the flow of blood to the brain. No blood = no oxygen = bad for your brain. Cholesterol has also been linked to the formation of plaque (microscopic protein and cholesterol) on the brain that is a primary characteristic of Alzheimer’s. No thank you!

Here are the keys to leaving the bad fats behind:

GO NATURAL

The best way to avoid “bad fats’ is to eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean sources of protein, and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. Steer clear of the packaged or processed. Cook at home as often as possible.

DITCH THE FAST FOOD & DEEP FRIED MEALS

This is no surprise… we’ve all heard that fast food is bad for your body. Now you know it’s bad for your brain, too. My best tip for avoiding this: plan your meals ahead of time so you don’t having to grab something in a pinch.

READ LABELS

Here’s a crazy fact for you: In the US, products containing less than 0.5 grams of trans fat per serving can be labeled as having 0 grams trans fat. When buying packaged foods, read the labels and ingredients – avoid anything with hydrogenated oils in the ingredients list.

LOOK AT YOUR ANIMAL PRODUCT CONSUMPTION

Animal products like meat and dairy are high in saturated fat. Now, I’m not here to tell you that these are all bad, but you should be aware of the quantity and quality of the animal products you’re eating, especially if you have issues with cholesterol. Aim for grass or grain-fed and organic when possible.

Not all fats are created equal... fats get a bad rap, but incorporating healthy fats into your diet is essential. Good sources of fat include avocados, raw nuts, and oils like coconut, olive, and fish.

Now, “who’s bad”?