increase in fat intake

Joe Marsh · 02-22-2007, 09:51 AM

From what I can tell, there are not many zone fans here but I would like to ask a few questions. I have just started doubling my fat blocks this week and was wondering if I should use fish oil for this. Right now I'm just using double of my current fat sources. These include olive oil, sunflower seeds and almonds.

I have done searches for the best and most cost effective fishoil, and found that many liked the costco brand. Does this still hold true? Are there any other products out there I could try (not a costco member)?

Lastly, after doubling my fat intake, how long should it take before I can notice an increase in performance?

Thanks everyone.

Mike ODonnell · 02-22-2007, 11:00 AM

Fish Oil shouldnt count in your fat blocks as you want it to be used as an anti-inflammatory by the body...and not a fuel source....Robb can probably break out some 3 sylable words that explain it more in detail...

As for increased performance? Well anytime you get more calories in to cover your energy needs and help repair muscle tissue...I imagine it will come pretty quickly.

Joe Marsh · 02-22-2007, 11:21 AM

Thanks Mike, appreciate the help. I'm going to assume, then, that just doubling my current fat sources is acceptable. Any particular brand of oil you might recommend?

Robb Wolf · 02-22-2007, 04:30 PM

Joe-
Second what MOD said. Depending upon activity level you may need to go as high as 5x the fat. Your level of leanness and performance will dictate this (getting too lean...performance still dipping vs performance good...getting a little soft).

costco is awesome IMO.

I think the Zone is popular enough around here in that it "works" I think it is tough to maintain long term for many. Some love the regimentation and these folks do GREAT on the Zone.
Keep us posted on your progress!

Joe Marsh · 02-22-2007, 06:19 PM

Thanks Robb. The reason I'm increasing fat intake, actually, is due to a drop in performance. Not that my "performance" is spectacular by any means. I just noticed that on certain WODs/ME days I have been struggling this past week. I'm lean enough for my taste, not really looking to lose (much) more body fat. I'm just hoping to see a boost during workouts.

What other brands of fish oil might you guys recommend? I can't just sign up for costco simply for fish oil. Does zoneliving or zoneperfect have anything good, or perhaps another generic from Alberstons/Wal-Mart?

Quick question in regards to the body not utilizing the fish oil for energy. but directing to reduce inflammation instead. How can the body tell the difference? Isn't it like putting my check and and my wife's check into 1 account? In the end, it all becomes one account of money. Wouldn't the same hold true for fat?

Frank Needham · 02-22-2007, 08:57 PM

Joe, I've found fish oil at Wal-mart, Walgreens, and other locations. Many places label it Cod Liver Oil and flavor it with cherry, orange, etc. If you can stomach it there is always the plain stuff but it smells like hell.

Mike ODonnell · 02-23-2007, 06:17 AM

Dont take fish oil on an empty stomach.

Brad Hirakawa · 03-07-2007, 05:37 PM

When increasing fat intake to maintain weight, doesn’t one risk upsetting the magic omega 6-to-3 ratios that we’re trying to hit and skew it towards becoming omega 6 heavy?

If so, is fish consumption (flesh and/or oil) used to re-balance the ratio?

Brad

Jesse Woody · 03-19-2007, 12:29 PM

That's why it's best to supplement the extra fat as monounsaturated fats such as olive oil, avacados, etc. instead of excess nuts and seeds.

Mike ODonnell · 03-19-2007, 01:15 PM

I'd keep the Omega 6s to a max of 25% of your fat, Omega 3s as 25%, and the Mono or MCTs as 50%...or something along that lines. You need some Omega6s or you will bleed to death from a paper cut....but it all depends on your current balance and what you are eating too (hidden sources of omega 6s in the food esp non-grass fed meats and eggs).