Fat

Types of fat

Monounsaturated

Polyunsaturated

Saturated

Each carbon atom is bonded with two hydrogen atoms

Solid at room temperature

Mainly found in animal foods

Too much causes high cholesterol and increased risk of CHD

One pair of carbon atoms with only one hydrogen bonded

Soft or liquid at room temperature

Found in animal and vegetable foods

Healthier, linked to lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of diabetes and cancer

Have two or more pairs of carbon atoms witch are capable of taking more hydrogen atoms

Soft or liquid at room temperature

Wont go hard in a refrigerator

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs)

Can't be made by the body

Essential for body processes e.g. blood clotting and inflammation control

Omega 3

Found in oily fish, seeds, nuts and leafy green vegetables

Helps protect the heart

Omega 6

Found in vegetables, fruits, grains, chicken and seeds

Helps lower cholesterol in the blood

Trans- fatty acids

Produced when hydrogen is added to vegetable oils in a process called hydrogenation. It is used to make solid fats from oil.

Behave like saturated fats

Very bad for the cardiovascular system and may increase the risk of breast cancer

Functions of fat in the diet

Used for energy

Form part of cell structure

Stored under the skin to insulate against the cold

Protects vital organs e.g. kidneys

Source of fat soluble vitamins (A,D,E,K)

Causes a feeling of satiety

Too much fat

Obesity

CHD

High blood pressure

Diabetes

Strokes