Fat provides your body with 9 calories per gram and plays an important role in your body; it is responsible for carrying the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K. Fat also provides your body with essential oils needed for your nails, hair, and skin maintenance and acts as a cushion for internal organs. The type of fat you consume plays a critical role in your health and risks of certain diseases.

Saturated Fat

Saturated fat primarily comes from animal sources and is characterized by being solid at room temperature (i.e. butter or gristle). It increases the amount of cholesterol in the blood and also increases the amount of triglycerides in the blood.

Unsaturated Fat

Unsaturated fats are found in vegetables, nuts and some fish and are characterized by being liquid at room temperature (i.e. vegetable oil). There are two types of unsaturated fats:

• Monounsaturated – considered to be the healthiest type of general fat and is found in olive oil, peanut oil, nuts, and seeds. It does not increase blood cholesterol levels; research has shown that these fats may even reduce blood cholesterol levels and are beneficial in reducing the risk of diabetes and heart disease.

• Polyunsaturated – decreases the level of cholesterol in the blood.

Trans Fat

Trans fat is the hydrogenated oil that is formed when hydrogen is added to unsaturated fats in order to make them into a semi-solid fat (i.e. margarine).