‘Good’ monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from cold water fish, olive oil, seeds and nuts provide your body with essential fatty acids that play important roles in numerous metabolic functions. Many dieters make the mistake of avoiding all fats when they should be focusing on avoiding the ‘bad’ saturated fats found in red meat and dairy foods. A study published in the Annals of Neurology shows good and bad fats in a whole new light.

Researchers analyzed the self-reported diets of 6,000 women who took part in 3 brain function tests spread across a 4-year timeframe. Regardless of levels of fitness or education, subjects who consumed the most monounsaturated fats posted higher scores, while women who consumed the highest levels of saturated fat scored poorly for memory and brain function performance.

True Strength Moment: From the results of this research, it appears that making smart decisions about what and how much you eat can pay dividends that extend well beyond the weight room and treadmill. For another interesting story on the benefits of good fats, read today’s Performance Blog at ABBperformance.com