Fats: Sources and Functions

Question 1

What is Fat?

Answer 1

Most concentrated energy source.

98% are water-insoluble (triglycerides, sterols)
2% are water-soluble (phospholipids)

Question 2

Dietary Fat in Inuit Culture

Answer 2

nuit diet: 75% of daily energy from fat.
High omega-3 from fatty fish.
Health benefits: lower heart, joint, and skin disease compared to Western diets.

Question 2

Misconceptions About Fat

Answer 2

Fat itself doesn’t make you gain weight. Your body can save extra calories as fat to use later when food is hard to find.

Question 3

Cholesterol

Answer 3

Main sterol, produced by the body

A sterol is a type of fat molecule that helps with things like making hormones and building cell walls. The most well-known sterol is cholesterol, which our bodies need but can be harmful in high amounts.

Question 4

2 main types of Cholesterol

Answer 4

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Bad. high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries and increase heart disease risk.

HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Good; helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.

Question 5

Triglycerides

Answer 5

Common dietary fat.

Question 6

3 types of Triglycerides

Answer 6

Saturated Fats: Solid at room temperature, found in animal and dairy products. Raises LDL levels. (OKAY)

Unsaturated Fats: Liquid at room temperature, found in plants (oils) lowers LDL levels. (SUPER GOOD)

Monounsaturated: One hydrogen missing.

Polyunsaturated: More than one hydrogen missing (includes omega-3 and omega-6 fats).

Trans Fats
Created by hydrogenating unsaturated fats, they raise LDL and lower HDL levels, negatively impacting health. (SUPER BAD)

Question 7

Phospholipids

Answer 7

hey are made up of two fatty acids and a phosphate group. These molecules help mix fats with water and are important for building cell membranes, which protect and support cells.

Question 8

Functions of Dietary Fat

Answer 8

Energy Storage: Fats store excess energy efficiently.

Regulation: Control body temperature, hormones, appetite, and nerve function.

Insulation and Protection: Surround vital organs and provide padding.

Digestion: Aid in transporting fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K).

Question 9

Sources of Fat

Answer 9

Removing fat from food can strip essential nutrients, particularly fat-soluble vitamins.

Question 10

3 macronutrients in order of energy

Answer 10

1g of fat = 9kcal
1g carb = 4kcal
1g protein = 4kcal