So far we have learned that carbohydrates and protein both provide energy for the body. Another primary source of energy is fats. Fats insulate, support, and cushion organs. They also provide a medium for absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Some examples of healthy fats would be fish, some vegetables, animal meat, grains, nuts, and seeds. Fats are the most calorie-dense form of energy meaning per each gram of fat is 9 calories vs. for protein and carbs it is 4 calories per each gram. Some types of fats include saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats. Saturated fats are fatty acids found mostly in animal production and tropical oils. They are also usually solid at room temperature. Unsaturated fats are fatty acids primarily in plant foods, and are usually liquid at room temperature. Trans fats are unsaturated fatty acid produced during the process of hydrogenation. The most important thing when choosing dietary fat is the type you consume. You don’t realize what it can affect sometimes until it is too late. One common thing found in people battling heart disease is their cholesterol levels. Stay tuned for next week as we dive into why fats and cholesterol correlate.
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