Fats are also important in the diet of children and adults
A healthy diet is that free of fats because that way you will not have cholesterol? Not at all. This is a very common mistake, and in fact, another of those great myths of food, but totally false: fats are a very important component in the diet and the daily diet of large and small because we they provide the energy that our body needs to work throughout the day. Like breakfast, we should not go without them.
What can be harmful to health, and that's why fats are so badly seen, is their intake too much or unbalanced, but taking them we must take them. Therefore, it is good follow certain recommendations as they remind us from the Spanish Association of Pediatrics (AEP).
There are some "basic" and general rules when it comes to eating fats in the diet. So for example, it's better eliminate that fat that is visible in the meats, take the chicken without skin, reduce the consumption of sausages and, depending on the case, opt for semi-skimmed milk.
Tips to improve the quality of fat in the diet
Apart from this, we must bear in mind that not all fats are the same, and this is where we must prioritize the consumption of quality fats. Follow these tips from pediatricians to improve the quality of fats that you take at home, and thus eat them not only without risk, but because it is totally necessary:
-Increase the consumption of fish 3-4 times a week if it is white, and twice a week if it is blue
-Use vegetable oils, especially olive
-With regard to "spreadable fats", better to use margarines in moderate amounts
-Simple cooking: boiled, grilled and baked are the main options. In the case of fried foods, they are better in olive oil, at high temperature and for a short time.
And remember that a balanced diet is one that includes all foods: There is nothing forbidden (unless there are allergies or other incompatibilities, and in this case it will be the doctor who warns you), but some that it is better to take in less quantity, like sweets. Do not forget that the diet Mediterranean has five meals, do not skip them!
Angela R. Bonachera
