Function:

• Provides a highly concentrated source of energy, more than twice the amount of carbohydrate or protein
• Carries fat-soluble vitamins - A,D,E and K.
• Essential for healthy skin and nervous system.
• Holds vital organs in place and acts as a protection from injury.
• Provides flavor to food and sense of satisfaction of fullness.

Description:

• Fatty acids are either produced by the body or must come from foods(essential fatty acids).
• Essential fatty acids are in two categories - saturated and unsaturated.
• Saturated fats contain all the hydrogen possible and are solid at room temperature. (Note: Cholesterol is the chemical in the blood, digestive juices and tissue; it is found in saturated fats.)
• Unsaturated fats contain less hydrogen and become liquid at room temperature.

Examples of foods:

Saturated Fats Unsaturated Fats

Butter                                                         Fish

Lard                                                            Vegetable oil

Chocolate                                                    Nuts

Lunch Meat                                                 Peanut butter

Digestion - begins in the small intestine; fats are broken down slowly by action of bile and other enzymes in the small intestine; a high-fat diet will cause the stomach to empty more slowly.

Amount Needed - daily intake should be no more than 30% of food consumed.

Energy Produced - yields 9 calories/gram