And as more fast food finds its way into Asia, fat consumption is on the increase. With it comes a potential for serious health risks. Not much, it has to be admitted, though the Singapore government last week set up an Operation Fat Check stall in the downtown area where, among other things, visitors could find out how many teaspoons of fat local favorites such as nasi lemak and fish-head curry contained. Nobody disputes that too much fat is unhealthy.
Fats insulate the body from the cold and protect our bones against fractures from falls.
They also cushion and support organs, assist in the absorption of vitamins A, D, and K, and are precursors to hormones responsible for sexual function such as estrogen and testosterone. And LDL cholesterol is associated with deposits on artery walls that cause blockages and reduced blood flow to the heart. Hundreds of thousands of dollars are poured annually into researching new ways of reducing fat and controlling its effect on our bodies. In the obese, fat is digested quickly and efficiently, so the feeling of fullness after a meal lasts only a short time. It seems the fatter you are, the more fat you need to feel satisfied.