Nutrition Guide: Fats

Fat is required for the production of cell membranes, blood lipids (body fat), bile (fat emulsifier), steroids and vitamin D. Fats molecules are made up of glycerol and fatty acids. Body fat is also instrumental in body temperature regulation as insulation. Minimum body fat percentages of 7% for men and 12% for women are recommended.

Fats are also utilized for the transport and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. In addition, fats are the only source of linoleic acid, which is required for skin growth and maintenance.

Minimum daily requirement for unsaturated fat is 10 grams and 15 grams is preferred.nutrition guide nutrition guide nutrition guide nutrition guide

Fats are digested by the enzyme lipase in the small intestines with the assistance of bile salts as emulsifiers. They are then transported through the bloodstream with the assistance of lipoproteins (fat + protein coating + phospholipids) and stored as Triglyceride (glycerol + 3 particles of fatty acids) in fat cells.

They are then released into the bloodstream as fatty acids when energy is required.The fatty acids travel through the bloodstream and are combined with glucose to burn the combination as energy. The combination of fatty acids and glucose is necessary for energy production.

Inadequate carbohydrate availability will result in incomplete fat metabolization producing unused lipids called ketones and leading to a chemical imbalance in the blood known as ketosis.

Fat is essential to survival. A fat-less diet can lead to severe problems.

To continue, click here: Nutrition Guide: Types of Fat