Fat doesn’t have the best reputation, especially among people trying to losing a few pounds. The very word scares people away, fostering a society that praises fat-free or low-fat products and views fat as a pound-packing enemy.

Shying away from fat is not the answer! Consuming more fat can actually help you lose weight, maximize your metabolism, and ultimately burn fat. That doesn’t mean you should inhale a cookie tray or run to your nearest pizza joint. When it comes to adding fat to your diet, the types of fat you choose matter significantly.