Body Fat Is Used
It is important that one consider what role fat plays in everyday life in one's body. Fats and oils are composed of triglycerides that serve as stored energy reserves in plant and animal cells. Each triglyceride is composed of three fatty acid molecules bonded to one glycerol molecule. When one has excess energy available from food, one may use that energy to form triglycerides. These can later be broken down to yield energy when the organism needs it. Fat and oils contain twice as much stored energy, per unit of weight, as carbohydrates or proteins (Encarta Encyclopedia [EE], 2005). Saturated Fat tends to increase blood cholesterol levels. Most saturated fats tend to be solid at room temperature, with the exception of tropical oils. It is found mostly in meat and dairy products, as well as some vegetable oils, such as coconut and palm oils (tropical oils). Butter is high in saturated fat, while margarine tends to have more unsaturated fat. Polyunsaturated Fat tends to lower blood cholesterol levels. Found mostly in plant sources (safflower, sunflower, soybean, corn, cottonseed). Monounsaturated Fat tends to lower LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol). Found in both plant and animal products, such as olive oil, canola oil, peanut oil, and in some plant foods such as avocado (Nutristrategy [N], 2005). Phospholipids are major components of the cell membrane. Phospholipids limit the passage of water-soluble compounds through the membrane, enabling the cell to keep its contents separate from the outside environment. Lastly, just wanted to give five ways that one can cut one's fat intake by watching what foods one consumes. Convert some of the foods one eats. Eat plenty of vegetables, increase the amount of whole grains, concentrate on the proper fats that one's body needs, eat healthy proteins, consume more low and nonfat dairy foods (Nelson, Lichtenstein, & Lindner, 2005). Hope this all helps in one's decision. Good luck, hope you make healthy choices, and let us talk if there are questions.
References
Encarta Encyclopedia (2005). Lipids. Retrieved August 11,2005, at http://encantra.msn.com/encyclopedia_761566842/Lipids.html
Nelson, M.E., Lichtenstein, A.H., & Lindner, L. (2005). Strong Women, Strong Hearts. New York: G.P Putnam's Sons.
Nutristrategy (2005). Fats, Oils, and Fatty Acids. Retrieved August 11, 2005, from www.nutristrategy.com/fatsoils.htm
