Fat

[Grog]

This article spans nutrition and injuries, so I posted it here. I hope it sparks lively discussion:


Women runners: Let fat be the fuel that helps you cross the finish line

CELIA MILNE

From Friday's Globe and Mail

March 28, 2008 at 9:26 AM EDT

Women who run regularly should make sure they eat enough fat. A recent study has shown what Neety Panu found out the hard way: Female runners who eat too little fat in their daily diet are more susceptible to injuries.
Continue reading: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servl...andHealth/home

[Jolt]

Very interesting. I wonder if it's all a function of the fat itself or if it's partly that a lot of runners just aren't getting enough calories for their activity level and fat is a good way to get more since it is more energy-dense. It could also have to do with fat-soluble vitamins--if you're not eating any fat then you're not able to absorb these very well and that can be problematic. Again, moderation. Eat some fat, but make it mainly healthy fats (no trans fats!!!!) and don't overdo it.

[KSH]

Hee-hee... does Mexican food give me my proper amount of fat intake? If so, I'm covered.

[OakLeaf]

Makes sense, since EFAs are known for their anti-inflammatory effects.

[Jolt]

Makes sense, since EFAs are known for their anti-inflammatory effects.

Good point.

[Di bear]

Olive oil is one of the main staples of my diet. If I fry something (I don't deep fry), I use a paper towel to smear a thin layer of oil on the pan. I use Olive Oil on my pasta with fresh basil and tomatoes. I'm even learning how to make my own salad dressing. The organic condiments are just too expensive for me, they don't necessarily taste how I want them to, and the regular "Walmart" variety salad dressings mostly have high fructose corn syrup. I'm gonna start making my own mayonnaise, too. I hear it's easy.

I truly believe that by targeting fats, Americans are targeting the wrong element in their diet. Fat is a scapegoat. Same with carbs. It's the rest of the crap that's causing problems.

[RoadRaven]

Interesting article, Grog

I would be interested to know more about this aspect... I'm going to see if I can find out more...

"The study found that eating less than 30 per cent dietary fat left female runners 2½ times more likely to suffer from a related injury."

Does less fat intake have such a huge effect on muscle strength... on tendon stretch/strength...??? What meatbolic or physiological effect is taking place here.

Really really interesting - thank you