10 years ago, "low fat" was all the rage. Now, carbohydrates are Public Enemy #1. If you're confused about which way of eating is best, you're not alone, but here's some good news. After more than a decade of fat free, low carb craziness, we have learned one thing for certain. When it comes to controlling your weight, not all fat is evil and not all carbs are bad. In fact, adding the right amounts and right types of fats and carbs can actually speed up fat loss.

THE SKINNY ON FATS
Let's take a look at the bad boys first - saturated fat and trans fats. Health professionals are still on the fence as to which is worse, but one theory is that trans fats, which are found in foods containing the words hydrogenated, hydrolyzed, or partially hydrogenated on the label (like margarine, cookies and candy) continue to top the list of shame because they are much more damaging than their natural counterpart - butter. This is due to the hydrogenating process used to "transform" unsaturated fats into something that looks and feels more like the saturated stuff, which is where all the trouble starts. In contrast, certain elements (like CLA) contained in natural forms of saturated fat, such as lean red meat and certain dairy products, may actually aid in weight loss. For more information on these fats, visit http://www.smartbomb.com/readingroom-the-good-fats-that-protect-health-and-fight-fat.html.
 
THE GOOD GUYS
Research continues to reveal that essential fatty acids, found in foods like flax seed oil, salmon, avocado, olive oil and natural peanut butter, not only boast the immune system, but also aid the body in metabolizing stored fat. In dozens of studies, subjects following a diet low in animal fats and trans fats, moderate in calories, which included a serving equivalent to one to two tablespoons of essential fat per day, received the most noticeable benefits - especially in their bodies willingness to drop abdominal fat. For a more comprehensive look at how essential fats work, go to http://www.benbest.com/health/essfat.html.
 
ADDING THE RIGHT CARBS
When you add complex carbohydrates and essential fats together, especially early in the day, they work to provide your body with a solid one-two punch against body fat. Slow burn carbs such as cooked oatmeal, whole grain bread and barley provide an even distribution of energy, help quiet wild afternoon cravings and squelch that dreaded 3:00pm slump. Adding a small amount of essential fat (a 1/2 tablespoon of oil or 1/2 ounce of nuts) stokes metabolism and satiates the appetite. Ideal combinations include cooked oatmeal with flaxseed or flaxseed oil added after cooking: a slice of whole grain toast and one tablespoon of natural peanut butter: Tabouli salad, a Mediterranean concoction of parsley, tomatoes, onion, cooked barley and olive oil, is also a good choice. Try adding one of these combinations to your diet, early to mid-day, and see if you don't feel and see a difference!