Fats contain more than twice as many calories per gram than do protein or carbohydrates.
Saturated fats help the body make cholesterol and are strong contributors to raising the blood cholesterol level. Monounsaturated fats are commonly found in olive and peanut oils, and may be helpful in lowering cholesterol. Polyunsaturated fats help to lower blood cholesterol levels. They are found in foods such as vegetables, fruit and grain. Blood cholesterol is a combination of the cholesterol manufactured by the body and that supplied by animal foods.