Fats

What Are They? Fats are another energy source for our bodies. Fats belong to a larger group of compounds called lipids. Lipids include both fats and oils.

Types of Fat Saturated Unsaturated Trans Fat

Saturated Fat Fat that is solid at room temperature Comes primarily from animal sources. –EX: Butter Cheese Marbling in beef Chicken fat Consuming diets high in saturated fats increases LDL (Bad cholesterol)

Unsaturated Fat Naturally liquid at room temperature Includes polyunsaturated fats monounsaturated fats Generally come from vegetable sources. EX: Olive oil Canola oil The oils in nuts and seeds The oils in fish and avocados Increases HDL levels (good cholesterol) and lowers LDL (the bad cholesterol)

Trans Fats Normally liquid at room temperature but have been chemically altered to be solid through a process called Hydrogenation. Used in food manufacturing to improve shelf life of various food items and to enhance the taste and texture. Found in processed foods including margarine.

Trans Fat They lower HDL and raise LDL Recommended to be completely avoided! Look for “hydrogenated” or “partly hydrogenated” on the food labels in the ingredient list. Even if the label says “no trans fat” by law small amounts may still be present.

Cholesterol A fatty like substance found in every cell in the body. It serves several important functions: –It’s part of the skin tissue –It aids in the transportation of fatty acids (which reduces hardening of arteries, improves immune function…..) –Needed in the body to produce hormones

LDL Cholesterol Bad cholesterol When too much LDL (bad) cholesterol circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up in the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. Together with other substances, it can form plaque, a thick, hard deposit that can narrow the arteries and make them less flexible. This condition is known as atherosclerosis. If a clot forms and blocks a narrowed artery, heart attack or stroke can result.atherosclerosis

HDL Cholesterol Good cholesterol About one-fourth to one-third of blood cholesterol is carried by high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol, because high levels of HDL seem to protect against heart attack. Low levels of HDL (less than 40 mg/dL) also increase the risk of heart disease. Medical experts think that HDL tends to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where it's passed from the body. Some experts believe that HDL removes excess cholesterol from arterial plaque, slowing its buildup.

Functions of Fat Energy source Carry certain vitamins (fat soluble vitamins) Carry flavor substances that make food taste good Make breads and meat tender Helps you feel full after eating Helps store energy and forms cushions that protect your internal organs Fat under your skin creates insulation that helps maintain your body temperature

Fat Deficiencies Result in weight loss and energy loss Will lower the amount of fatty acids, which can lower your immune system so you will be susceptible to get sick You will not be able to absorb fat-soluble vitamins like vitamin k, which helps your blood clot