Contrary to the commonly held fear associated with dietary fats, nutrition science demonstrates the crucial roles that fats play in our overall well-being. Read on to learn the various functions of dietary fats, the distinction between different types of fats, and how a balanced approach to fat consumption can improve your health.
What does dietary fat do for us?
Everyone needs to consume enough fats through diet because they are considered to be one of the essential macronutrients needed to maintain overall health. Here is a list of some of the many vital roles of dietary fat:
- Source of energy
While carbohydrates serve as the body’s preferred energy source, fats have a role as an energy reserve for our bodies. Fat is used for energy during periods of increased energy needs, such as during endurance exercise (1).
- Cell membrane function
As part of the cell membrane, fat functions in controlling the substances that pass into and out of the cell (2).
- Synthesizes hormones
Dietary fats are involved in the process of producing hormones like testosterone, estrogen, and cortisol (3).
- Aids in the absorption of vitamins
Fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K need fat to be properly absorbed (4).
- Insulates
Fat is what makes up adipose tissue, which provides insulation and maintains proper body temperature by limiting the amount of heat that is lost (4).
- Cognitive function
Fat, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, are crucial for processes that impact learning and memory (2).
- Cushions organs
Adipose tissue protects organs against damage or injury (4).
- Provides palatability
Food should be enjoyed, and fats add flavor and satiety to meals.
What are the different types of fats?
Not all fats are the same. Different types have different impacts on the health of our bodies. The categories for types of fats include saturated, unsaturated, and trans fats. It’s important to know the difference between various types of fats so that you know which ones to choose more often or avoid for optimal health outcomes.
Saturated Fats
Saturated fats are typically solid at room temperature and can be found mostly in animal products like fatty meats, dairy, and oils (like palm and coconut oil). You want to limit this type of fat in your diet since excessive intake is linked to an increased risk of heart disease (4).
Unsaturated Fats
Unsaturated fats can be further categorized into monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Both types are considered to be heart-healthy fats, but you want to pay special attention to polyunsaturated fats. This is because omega-3 fats are a type of polyunsaturated fat (5). Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and sardines. Monounsaturated fats can be found in olive oil, nuts, and avocados.
Trans Fats
Trans fats should be avoided because they are associated with several negative health outcomes like increased risk for heart disease, increased levels of LDL (“bad” cholesterol), and lower levels of HDL (“good” cholesterol). Sources of trans fats include fried foods, red meats, and some pastries and margarine (4).
Tips for balancing your diet with healthy fats
- Read food labels:
Check food labels to identify sources of healthy fats and avoid products with trans fats. Look for the terms “monounsaturated” and “polyunsaturated.” (4)
- Limit processed foods:
Reduce your intake of pack and fried foods, which may contain trans fats (4). The best choice is usually the one that doesn’t come in packaging.
- Choose lean sources of protein:
When determining which source of protein you’d like to balance your next meal with, try opting for lean protein sources like poultry, fish, and plant-based proteins like beans and legumes.
- Opt for olive oil:
Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking or even as a dressing for salads. It’s a great source of monounsaturated fats and adds flavor to your meals.
Remember, balance is key. While incorporating healthy fats, it’s also essential to maintain a well-rounded diet that includes a variety of nutrients from different food groups.
References
(1) Askew EW. Role of fat metabolism in exercise. Clin Sports Med. 1984;3(3):605-621.
(2) de Carvalho CCCR, Caramujo MJ. The Various Roles of Fatty Acids. Molecules. 2018;23(10):2583. Published 2018 Oct 9. doi:10.3390/molecules23102583
(3) Zhang D, Wei Y, Huang Q, et al. Important Hormones Regulating Lipid Metabolism. Molecules. 2022;27(20):7052. Published 2022 Oct 19. doi:10.3390/molecules27207052
(4) Dietary fats explained: Medlineplus medical encyclopedia. MedlinePlus. Accessed February 29, 2024. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000104.htm.
(5) Gammone MA, Riccioni G, Parrinello G, D’Orazio N. Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids: Benefits and Endpoints in Sport. Nutrients. 2018;11(1):46. Published 2018 Dec 27. doi:10.3390/nu11010046
