As I write, I’m nestled in the stunning village of Penestanan, surrounded by beautiful jungle. I do love the fresh, local food.

And on that note, I’m jazzed to kick off December by sharing about foods that are our natural fat-burners. A couple of my favourites are

  • Dark, leafy greens
  • Green tea (this tasty recipe  using this natural energy booster is worth savouring!)

And interestingly, studies show us that foods with unsaturated fats are vastly better for our bodies than those with saturated, often processed, fats.  In fact, a study by The British Journal of Nutrition in 2009 found that people who consume the highest amount of unsaturated fat have the lowest BMI (Body Mass Index) and abdominal fat.  This research helps explain that eating the right fats helps us burn fat1.

My top picks are those found in what I call ‘real’ foods:

  • Nuts and seeds (remember to presoak yours – and here’s the reason you’d bother!);
  • Avocados and coconuts (eaten fresh, provide high quality unsaturated fats)

Our bodies need fat – good fat – for optimal health and function. It makes so much sense to select our best options for both fueling and optimizing our health.

Which ones are your favourites?

 

1Put simply, “fat helps you burn fat,” as Keri Glassman, nutritionist and registered dietician, confirms in “Why Healthy Fats Don’t Make You Fat” (nutriouslife.com).

 

Fi Jamieson-Folland D.O, is a Lifestyle Consultant, with over 26 years experience in Europe, Asia and New Zealand as a qualified osteopath, educator, writer, certified raw vegan gluten-free chef, speaker, health mentor and Health Brand Ambassador. She loves to globe-trot with her husband Chris (NZ, Australia, USA, UK + Europe and Indonesia are current favourites) relishing an outdoor lifestyle and time with family and friends.