Fat

Fat has a number of important functions in the body. It is the most concentrated source of calories, providing more than two times the calories of carbohydrate or protein. Fat spares protein so that protein can be used to build and repair tissue instead of being used for energy. It helps with the transportation and absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). Fat slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach and produces a feeling of satiety (fullness) after a meal. Fat adds to the palatability of food and is in most foods eaten by Americans.

• naturally in foods
  examples: fatty beef, whole milk
• processed into food
  examples: luncheon meat, sausage, cheese
• used in preparation
  examples: French fries, salad dressing, chips
• added at the table
  example: to spread on bread
• seasoning in food
  examples: mashed potatoes
• ingredient
  examples: cake, cookies

All dietary fats are a combination of saturated and unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fat includes both monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fat. It is important to know the type of fat you are eating because of the effect it has on blood cholesterol. Is the fat in your diet primarily saturated or unsaturated?

• Saturated fat raises blood cholesterol.
• Unsaturated fat, except when hydrogenated, lowers blood cholesterol when substituted for saturated fat in the diet.

All LivingHeart diets are low in saturated fat.