Fat bombs’: Separating fact from fad

Protein and energy “balls” have been the chosen pick-me-up for the health-conscious for a number of years now. Fans of the little spheres – a tightly-packed mix of nuts, seeds and protein powders – say that they are perfect for wolfing down when energy levels are low. But what would you say if someone offered you a ball of fat when you’re having that4pm office slump? 

That’s right: heavy cream, butter and oil rolled into bite-sized portions, ready to pop in your mouth when you need a little boost. Once upon a time, swallowing a lump of fat would have been anathema to the health food crowd – but science increasingly suggests that once-demonized fats are actually perfectly healthy. But are these bombs really the best way to ingest good fats?

 

What are fat bombs?

 

Usually made from a combination of ingredients such as butter, coconut oil, nuts and seeds, fat bombs were initially designed for those following the Ketogenic diet. Devotees eat a high-fat, low-carb diet that induces ketosis, a state of starvation where the body begins to burn fat instead of carbohydrates.

 

Are they good for you?

 

Author of Get The Glow and nutritional health coach Madeleine Shaw is a fan – in the right circumstances. She says: “Those following a Ketogenic diet love them, as their main source of energy comes from fat, with carbs or sugar playing a very minimal part.”

 

Madeleine says they provide a “concentrated form of healthy fats that fill you up and keep you on a low-carb diet”. She suggests eating them before the gym or as a snack to last you through until dinner – but warns one a day should do the job.