Fat is good for you…but NOT when combined with carbs (ie. French fries, chocolate cake and doughnuts). This dangerous combination can raise ghrelin, the “hunger hormone,” telling you to pick up your fork.

Combining carbs and fat can also induce a temporary state of insulin resistance, which can lead to fat storage. In fact, elevated levels of insulin (ie. hyperinsulinemia) is now a well-established driving force of chronic disease, notably Alzheimer’s, obesity and diabetes. Combination of sugar and saturated fat (fast food!) can also increase inflammation and decrease Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor, your miraculous memory-boosting protein.

I frequently look to nature for nutrition inspiration or wisdom. It is rare to find foods in nature that contain both saturated fat and carbohydrates or sugar. For example, most fruits are pure carb and fiber (no fat). Avocadoes and coconut are fruits that are high in fat and low in carbs.

Animal products are generally high in fat (and protein) and low in carbs. Dairy is an exception as it contains a combination of carbohydrate (lactose) and saturated fat. This is why dairy (breast milk) is a child’s first source of nutrition- to aid in weight gain and rapid growth. But as adults we don’t need this rapid weight gain!

It’s time to rethink these processed foods that combine fat and carbs (think doughnuts, pizza, bagel with cream cheese, and fettuccini alfredo) and return to a diet nature intended.

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.