It supplies energy and carries vitamins to various parts of our body. Mention fat and most people think of fried foods, butter and rich desserts. While these are significant sources of dietary fat, many fats are not so obvious. Fat is a component of many foods, from meats to dairy products to nuts. In addition to these naturally occurring fats, the American diet is rich with added fats.
Fats seem to be the ingredient that help foods taste better, keep longer and even look prettier.
Fat in food is a combination of three types of fatty acids. Fat and fat-containing foods are classified by the fatty acid which is found in the largest amount. Most foods contain a combination of all types of these fats. All fats are not created equal when it comes to good health and prevention of heart disease. Some types of fat increase harmful or plaque-forming cholesterol in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease.