How Much Fat Should You Be Consuming Each Day?

Is America fat? If you look at obesity statistics, it seems that our land of plenty certainly has its fair share of weight problems. It certainly isn’t hard to find Americans interested in quick weight loss and finding ways to reduce belly fat.

Perhaps this is because we have so much food at our fingertips, coupled with the fact that most of us don’t have a clear idea of how to consume a healthy diet. It’s no surprise, considering how many foods have labels like “healthy” and “natural”, but contain tons of sodium, sugar, and chemical additives.

The point is that you may soon find yourself in need of low level laser therapy to reduce cellulite and contour your body if you don’t get a handle on your diet. You probably know that you should be eating less fats and sugars and more vegetables, for example, but this doesn’t easily translate to the foods you actually put in your body.

So what’s the skinny on eating fats? How much should you really consume daily? Here’s some food for thought where fat consumption is concerned.

Basic Guidelines

The amount of fat you’re advised to consume daily will depend on several factors, including your gender, age, weight, family medical history, and general state of health, just for example. The amount and type of exercise you get could also play a role. To some extent, you will have to determine the amount of fat acceptable for your particular dietary needs.

That said, there are some general guidelines to get you started. You can’t avoid fats altogether – some are essential for your body to function properly. According to the Institute of Medicine, the average adult should get roughly 20-35% of their daily calories from fat.

At a rate of approximately 9 calories per gram of fat, this means that anyone following a 2,000 calorie diet should consume about 44-78 grams of fat daily. The number may fluctuate if you reduce or increase caloric intake, if you’re trying to lose or gain weight, if you have a medical condition, or if you’re pregnant, just for example. You will want to speak with a doctor or nutritionist before making changes to your diet.

Types of Fat

Don’t forget that there are many types of fat, and we’re not necessarily talking about the kind that can be eliminated with cold laser therapy. We’re talking about the kind of fats you can consume.

We all know by now that trans fats are pretty bad and should be avoided, but saturated fats (butter, lard, cream, fatty meats, etc.) can also be detrimental when consumed in excess. Instead, opt for healthy, unsaturated fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like those found in olive oil, avocados, and nuts, for example) that help to maintain low cholesterol, heart health, and a healthy weight.

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