Why is fat needed in the body?

Fat is needed by the body in small amounts to build cells, provide energy, to absorb certain vitamins, and to protect your bones and organs.

Cholesterol:

LDL – labeled the “bad” cholesterol
When too much LDL cholesterol circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up on the inner walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. LDL can contribute to plaque formation, a thick hard deposit that can clog arteries. It is ideal to keep your LDL below 130 mg/dL.

HDL – labeled the “good” cholesterol
Our bodies desire a high level of HDL cholesterol to help protect against a heart attack. It is ideal to strive for an HDL above 60 mg/dL. Medical experts report that HDL carries bad cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver for removal from the body. Experts believe that HDL removes excess plaque in the arteries, thus slowing the build-up of this substance.

Fat:

Saturated
If one consumes more saturated fat than needed for cell formation and energy, it will cause an increase in LDL cholesterol (bad) levels. Found in: animal products such as butter, cheese, whole milk, ice cream, fatty meats (e.g., ground chuck, hot dogs, and prime rib) and vegetable oils (e.g., coconut, palm, and palm kernel oils).

Unsaturated
AKA: monounsaturated & polyunsaturated fat. These are the healthy fats. If one were to substitute saturated fat with unsaturated fat, studies show it will help lower total cholesterol levels. Most unsaturated fats come from plant sources like avocados, olives, peanuts, almonds, and pistachios. Canola oil and peanut oil are high in this type of fat. Fatty fish, like salmon, abound in poly and monounsaturated fat, but just like all food, this type of fat should be consumed in moderation.

Trans
AKA: hydrogenated fat or oil. This is formed when liquid oil is made into a solid, like shortening and hard margarine. Hydrogenation (adding hydrogen to a substance) helps increase the shelf-life and provides flavor stability to processed foods. This type of man-made fat will increase one’s LDL and decrease HDL as well! Found in: processed food with the word “hydrogenated” in the ingredient list, such as margarines, some crackers, cookies, snacks, fried foods (in the store and at restaurants) and baked goods.