Cats are absolutely adorable, whether big or small, fat or thin. However, we all have to agree that fat cats hold a special place in the hearts of many. These round chonkers make us laugh and cry, as ...

Understanding the Context

In nutrition, biology, and chemistry, fat usually means any ester of fatty acids, or a mixture of such compounds, most commonly those that occur in living beings or in food. [1] The fats in your food don’t automatically turn into body fat (adipose tissue). Your body only stores fat if you take in more calories from protein, carbs or fats than your body needs to burn for energy. What Is Fat?

Key Insights

Types & Why You Need Fats - Cleveland Clinic The American Heart Association suggests that 8-10 percent of daily calories should come from polyunsaturated fats, and there is evidence that eating more polyunsaturated fat—up to 15 percent of daily calories—in place of saturated fat can lower heart disease risk. : any of numerous compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen that are glycerides of fatty acids, are the chief constituents of plant and animal fat, are a major class of energy-rich food, and are soluble in organic solvents (as ether) but not in water fat, any substance of plant or animal origin that is nonvolatile, insoluble in water, and oily or greasy to the touch. Together with animal and vegetable oils, fats comprise one of the three principal classes of foodstuffs, the others being proteins and carbohydrates. Fat is an important part of your diet, but some kinds are healthier than others. Find out which to choose and which to avoid.

Final Thoughts

The type of fat you eat every day, over a lifetime, can help keep you healthy.