Endocrinologist Zukhra Pavlova: consuming fat in the right amount is important for physical and mental health.
Doctor Pavlova spoke about a new study that confirmed the harm of saturated fats, consumed in large quantities, for the intestines. Excess in the diet of foods rich in such fat has a specific effect on intestinal bacteria, contributing to negative changes in the composition of the intestinal microflora.
“Large amounts of food rich in fat destroys resident intestinal bacteria. As a result, an unhealthy microbiome is formed, which promotes the penetration of bacteria through the mucous membrane into the blood,” the doctor warned in her Telegram channel.
According to Pavlova, animal tests have shown that an excess of saturated fats negatively affects both the digestive system and on brain function (which is not surprising, given the connection between the state of the intestines and the central nervous system that exists in the body). Eating this way has been shown to stimulate the production of substances associated with stress and anxiety.
At the same time, doctor Pavlova clarified: a lack of fat also has a bad effect on health. Vitamins such as A, D, E and K are absorbed by the body only when fat is consumed, and their deficiency threatens pathologies of vital organs, the development of Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression and other disorders affecting cognitive (thinking) function. In addition, fat contributes to the high resistance of the immune system to the influence of harmful external factors and is necessary for the proper functioning of the lungs.
“A person is adversely affected by both excess and lack of fat.”
The specialist called the most beneficial unsaturated fats found in foods such as fish, olive oil, nuts and seeds. As for saturated fats, their consumption should be extremely moderate, but you should not completely abandon such foods. The lack of saturated fatty acids in white blood cells reduces their ability to recognize and destroy viruses, bacteria and fungi.
The MedikForum.ru portal previously wrote about why it is dangerous to give up carbohydrates for the purpose of losing weight.
Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and under no circumstances self-medicate. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.
Zukhra Pavlova Healthy lifestyle, endocrinologist, Moscow State University. M. V. Lomonosova, Candidate of Medical Sciences