Review of Fats

Fats along with proteins and carbohydrates, are one of the three nutrients used as energy sources by the body. The energy produced by fats is 9 calories per gram. Proteins and carbohydrates each provide 4 calories per gram.

Fat is probably the most contentious issue in nutrition. Are they as bad for us as we are led to believe? Are they really responsible for the often poor standard of health seen in the majority of the western world? Should we embrace the "low fat lifestyle"?

The truth is that fat is just as vital to your body as any other nutrient and so avoiding it is not only inadvisable, but is detrimental to your health as well. So to better understand the importance of fat, the following lists its 5 major functions.

1) Fat provides a ready energy source and in a well-nourished individual, it provides as much as 80% to 90% of your body's energy requirements. 

2) Fat is needed so your body can absorb the fat soluble vitamins A, D, E, K, and prevent deficiencies of these vitamins.

3) Protects organs and bones from shock and provides support for organs.

4) Provides insulation under the skin from the cold and the heat.

5) Fat is part of every cell membrane in the body.  It helps transport nutrients and metabolites across cell membranes.