High Fat Foods that are good for you: Part 1

Not that long ago fat was demonized to such an extent it was replaced in many diets - but that has led to people eating more sugar, refined carbohydrates and processed meals.
As a result, the whole world is becoming fatter, with obesity one of the major killers of our species. But times are changing, Studies are now showing that "sugar" is the real evil here, and in fact fat, including some saturated fat, is not the devil it was made out to be.
We should say at this point that "trans-fat" is still the one to avoid though. In moderation of course, but as a treat only.

Here are three high fat foods that are good for you.

Avocado
The avocado is different from most other fruits. Whereas most fruits primarily contain carbohydrates, avocados are loaded with fats. In fact, avocados are about 77% fat by calories, making them even higher than most animal foods.
The main fatty acid is a monounsaturated fat called oleic acid (a so-called "good fat"). There is also the predominant fatty acid olive oil, associated with various health benefits.
They are among the best sources of potassium in the diet, even containing more than 40% more than bananas. This mineral works with sodium to balance the fluids and electrolytes in your body. And since steady fluid levels help to regulate your heartbeat and prevent muscles from cramping, potassium os of particular importance to those who exercise and runners.

Avocado are also a great source of fibre and studies have shown that they can lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising HDL (the "good") cholesterol. So even though they are high in fat and calories, study shows that people who eat avocados tend to weigh less and have less belly fat than those who do not.

Cheese
Cheese is incredibly nutritious. This makes sense, given that an entire cup of milk is used to produce a single thick slice of cheese.

It is a great source of Calcium, Vitamin B12, Phosphorous and Selenium, and contains all sorts of other nutrients. It is also rich in protein, with a single thick slice of cheese containing the same amount as a glass of milk.

Yes, it is a high fat dairy product - dairy itself can be a dirty word to some. But t also contains powerful fatty acids that have been linked to all sorts of benefits, including reduced risk of Type 2 Diabetes.  So everything in moderation.

Dark Chocolate
"Lazza, you are clutching at straws", some may say. But no. Dark chocolate is one of those rare health foods that actually taste incredible. Everything in moderation. Just don't stuff yourself.

It is naturally very high in fat, with fat at around 65% of calories. But it is 11% Fibre, and contains over 50% of your daily allowance of Iron, Magnesium, Copper, and Manganese. It is loaded with antioxidants, so much so it is one of the highest-scoring foods tested, even outranking blueberries.

Some of the antioxidants in it have potent biological activity, and can lower blood pressure and protect LDL cholesterol in the blood from becoming oxidized.

Studies also show that people who ate a small amount of dark chocolate five or more times a week are less than half as likely to die from heart disease, compared to people who do not eat any dark chocolate. Some studies suggest it improves brain function, and even protect your skin from damage when exposed to the sun.

Always choose a quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. And small amounts.