For over six years I ate a fat-free diet. Zero fat. I believed that was the healthiest way to get lean but all that happened was that I felt moody and weak, my skin was dry and much to my disappointment I was no leaner than before. Needless to say I was frustrated and unhappy but it still took me a while to change that habit. Once I was out of the dance world and learnt more about nutrition and fitness I realized that eating fat is essential for good health. Without it we are in danger of missing out on vitamins A, E and D. These fat-soluble vitamins play an important role in our good health. They are vital for our skin, our mood, our brain function, heart health, hormone balance and joints; the key is choosing the right fat. Be selective, those from monounsaturated sources are what you want to include in your diet and these include olive oil, avocados and nuts. Avoid saturated fats which are found in many processed foods as well as meat and dairy products. Monounsaturated fats can be easily swapped into your diet. Think about a drizzle of olive oil over your green vegetables instead of butter, a mashed-up avocado instead of mayo in a sandwich or a handful of nuts instead of cheese as your mid-afternoon snack The other good oils include fish oils which are a source of omega-3. This essential fatty acid helps to reduce blood clots and could help prevent strokes and heart disease. Found in oily fish like salmon, mackerel and tuna, these fish should be part of your weekly diet. Fat makes food tasty, keeps you fuller for longer and gives you that glowing skin we all crave. Sounds good enough to eat!