The Role of Healthy Fats in Your Diet: Debunking the Myths

Healthy fats are back—and they never should’ve left.

For decades, fat got a bad rap. Low-fat everything. Fat-free labels. The ’90s were basically one long campaign against avocados.

But here’s the truth: fat is essential. Especially the good kind. Especially when it’s part of a real-food, nutrient-dense diet.

At Pete’s Real Food, we embrace healthy fats as a key part of the meals we craft and deliver every week. And today we’re setting the record straight on what makes a fat "good"—and why your body (and your brain) are totally into them.

What Are Healthy Fats, Anyway?

"Healthy fats" are fats that support heart, brain, and metabolic health. These include:

  • Monounsaturated fats – Found in olive oil, avocado, and nuts
  • Polyunsaturated fats (especially omega-3s) – Found in walnuts and flaxseed
  • Naturally occurring saturated fats – Found in coconut oil and animal products

These fats are anti-inflammatory, energy-rich, and help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K.

And no, eating fat doesn’t mean you’ll automatically gain fat. The real enemy? Ultra-processed foods, sugar overload, and poor quality oils.

Why Your Body Actually Loves Fat

You know what runs on fat? Your brain. Your hormones. Your energy reserves. 

Healthy fats:
- Help keep you full longer (goodbye blood sugar crashes)
- Are crucial for cellular repair and brain function
- Support hormone production and mood regulation
- Can actually help your body burn *more* fat when paired with whole foods

This is why fat isn’t just tolerated in our meals at Pete’s—it’s celebrated.

Paleo and Healthy Fats: A Perfect Match

If you’re following a Paleo diet, fats are more than welcome. They’re foundational. Paleo-friendly meals typically include:

- Avocado or avocado oil
- Olive oil and olives
- Coconut oil and coconut milk
- Naturally fatty cuts of meat

At Pete’s Real Food, we build our meals with these ingredients in mind—no seed oils, no mystery sauces. Just high-quality fats, proteins, and produce that love your body back.

👉 Explore our Paleo & AIP Meals

The Fat Myths That Need to Go

Let’s clear a few things up:

Myth: Fat makes you fat
Truth: Overeating processed junk + refined carbs makes you fat. Healthy fat helps you feel full and nourished.

Myth: Saturated fat is always bad
Truth: Naturally occurring saturated fat (like in coconut oil or meat) is not the enemy. It’s about *quality* and *context*.

Myth: Low-fat is always healthier  
Truth: Low-fat often means high-sugar, high-additive. Whole foods with natural fats are far better for long-term health.

How Pete’s Real Food Does Fat Right

Our meals aren’t afraid of fat—in fact, we lean into it. From shredded pork with coconut curry to beef and sweet potato bowls, our dishes are designed to give your body what it needs to feel satisfied and energized.

We use healthy fats because they:
- Make food taste better
- Keep you full longer
- Help support your health goals—whether you’re eating Paleo, AIP, or just aiming for fewer decisions around dinner

Browse Our Weekly Menu →

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TL;DR: Fat is your friend.

When it comes from real, whole sources, fat is one of the most powerful tools in your nutrition toolkit.

At Pete’s Real Food, we’re here to put flavor, function, and yes—healthy fats—back on your plate.

Eat real. Feel better. Repeat.

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