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5 Signs You're Eating Too Much Fat

by Kristina Johnson

Healthy eating sounds so simple in theory, but in reality, it can be pretty complex. You probably know that you should limit consumption of processed, fatty foods in favor of fresh, homemade meals. Of course, that doesn't mean you should avoid foods with fat altogether. It's an important component of a healthy diet (yeah, bet you didn't think you'd hear that.) But going overboard on fat, even unintentionally, can take a toll on your body. There are a few signs you're eating too much fat you should watch out for if you're aiming for a healthier lifestyle.

It's worth noting, again, that not all fat is bad for you. According to Healthline, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats like the ones found in nuts, avocados, and many types of fish can actually boost your heart health. But saturated fats and trans fats, often found in things like butter and margarine, fatty cuts of meat, and fried or processed foods should probably be kept to a minimum, as they can raise your risk for both heart disease and diabetes. But be warned: even the so-called healthy fats may be best in moderation, because they often come with a pretty high calorie count.

If you're worried there's too much fat in your diet, here are five signs to keep an eye on.

1

You're Gaining Weight

This one's kind of a no-brainer: too much fat in your diet is likely to lead too much fat in your body, according to Live Strong. If you're gaining weight, you may need to cut back on the fat content in your food. And remember — that can mean even those healthy foods like nuts.

2

Your Cholesterol Is High

One major sign that you're eating too much fat is high cholesterol, according to the UK's National Health Service. Your doctor can let you know your cholesterol numbers with a simple blood test.

3

You Get Indigestion

Fatty foods aren't easy on the gut. According to Reader's Digest, if you're constantly struggling with indigestion and/or heartburn, there's a good chance the fat in your diet is to blame.

4

You're Constantly Tired

Have you ever fallen into a food coma after eating a meal? You're not alone. The fat in your diet can have a big impact on your energy level, according to Men's Health.

5

Your Mind Gets Fuzzy

Not only can too much fat make you feel sleepy, it can also make it harder for you to focus according to a study detailed in The Daily News. Researchers found that just a few days of unhealthy eating can dull your mental faculties. If that's not a reason to think twice before chowing down on a fatty meal, I don't know what is.