Saturated and unsaturated fats: nutritional differences and health effects

Biology

Saturated and Unsaturated Fats

This is a paper on saturated and unsaturated fats. There are three references used for this paper.

There are a number of components in foods consumed by humans. It is important to understand what saturated and unsaturated fats are, as well as their functions.

Saturated Fats

Saturated fats are "any solid fat that is an ester of glycerol and a saturated fatty acid. The molecules of a saturated fat have only single bonds between carbon atoms (unknown)." These fats are characterized by maintaining a solid or almost sold form when stored at room temperature.

Saturated fats are considered to be extremely unhealthy. They are responsible for making the "body produce more cholesterol, which may raise blood cholesterol levels. Excess saturated fat is related to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (www.dietsite.com/Diets/HeartHealthy/FatDictionary/Saturated%20Fat)."

Conclusion

There are a variety of fats in the foods consumed today. It is important to understand the difference between these fats in order to maintain a healthy diet and prevent certain illnesses.