Is hummus fattening? Does hummus make you fat? These are common questions we here at Hope Hummus. People are often excited about finding healthy snack and meal options, only to find that hummus contains fat. This instantly changes their opinion about this healthy, tasty choice, because in the diet culture, fat is bad. It’s something to be avoided at all cost if you’re trying to lose weight. Unfortunately, this opinion is short-sighted. Today, we’re going to look at the good, the bad, and the ugly of fats, and how to choose food options that will fuel your body and mind, while also helping you maintain a healthy weight.
All Fats are Not Created Equal
First, we must understand that not all fats are created equal. The fat found in a cupcake is much less healthy than the fat found in an avocado. Knowing the differences between fats, and choosing the right one is essential for a healthy life.
Our Bodies Need Fat
Second, we must understand that our bodies need fat to function. Now, this doesn’t mean we should start downing the wrong kind of fats. But, we need to fuel our bodies with good fats, because it stimulates cell growth, and gives our body energy.
Distinguishing Between Good and Bad Fats
Now that we’ve set our foundation, we can get into distinguishing between good and bad fats. If all fats aren’t created equal, then how are we to determine if one is good or bad? There are four different kinds of fats in the food and drinks we consume:
- Saturated Fats
- Trans Fats
- Monounsaturated Fats
- Polyunsaturated Fats
Each of these has different physical properties and chemical properties. Bad fats (saturated and trans fats) raise LDL cholesterol (the kind you don’t want) in your blood, while good fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats) actually lower LDL levels in your blood while increasing HDL cholesterol (the kind you want) levels, and are very beneficial to your body. In fact, monounsaturated fats have been shown to be helpful with weight loss.
Each kind of fat has the same amount of calories – nine calories per gram – no matter what type it is. So, when you’re choosing the fat your body needs, it’s wise to choose one that works to make you healthier while fueling your body and cells, instead of working against you.
Hummus Fat: The Good Kind
Now that we understand the difference between the four types of fat, we can look at hummus fat, and determine whether it is healthy, or unhealthy. The fat in hummus is primarily polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats – the good fats. This means that when you eat hummus, you are:
- Lowers Bad Cholesterol Levels
- Increases Good Cholesterol Levels
- Provides Fuel for Your Body
- Keeps Your Brain Healthy
As you can see, there’s nothing to worry about when it comes to the fat found in your favorite dip. It’s a healthy choice for when you want a snack, or to add some healthy fat to your meal.
Does Hummus Make You Fat? Weight Loss and Our Favorite Dip
Many people worry, and ask “is hummus fattening” as they begin their diet. This is unfortunate, because humus can be a great snack to actually aid weight loss. That’s because monounsaturated fats help you lose weight – specifically belly fat. You feel fuller, and more satiated when you eat healthy fats, as opposed to unhealthy ones. Additionally, because of the fiber in hummus (from the chickpeas), you will feel fuller longer – which is always a bonus, whether you’re on a diet or not.
Hummus: A Fantastic Snack or Meal Option
Because hummus can be paired with vegetables (making it easier to get those daily servings in!), it is a great option if you’re trying to lose or maintain weight, or are simply looking to live a healthier life. Because of the polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fat that it contains, it works to lower bad cholesterol levels, raise good ones, keep your brain healthy, and fuel your body to live your life to its fullest!
