Santé proudly co-sponsors Team Continu, the elite skating team led by Olympic champion Marianne Timmer. As a former world-class speed skater, Marianne shares daily fitness tips with Santé to help you stay in top shape.
Marianne Timmer: 'Your body needs a baseline of fats daily, but excess can lead to obesity and health issues. Prioritize unsaturated fats like olive oil over butter. Fats fuel energy needs, aid absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, insulate the body, protect organs, and support cell building.'
Saturated Fats
These primarily fuel the body and come mainly from animal products, though some plant sources too. They can raise blood cholesterol and cardiovascular risk if overconsumed. Moderation is key. Examples: butter, solid cooking and frying fats, hard margarines, fatty meats, full-fat cheese, whole milk products, coffee creamer, imitation whipped cream, snacks, cakes, biscuits, and chocolate.
Unsaturated Fats
Essential for vitamins A, D, and E, they build the nervous system, brain, hormones, and cell membranes. Mostly from plant sources, they're liquid at room temperature and help lower blood cholesterol. Examples: all oils, diet or low-fat margarines, liquid frying fats, oil-based dressings, fatty fish, nuts like walnuts, peanuts, hazelnuts, peanut butter, and other nut butters.
Balance both saturated and unsaturated fats daily for peak health.
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