Mealformation - Daily Reference Values Daily Reference Values are a set of dietary measurements of total fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, sodium, and potassium. These values can be used as a general guide to a healthy diet. They are not specific recommendations, in that each person's nutritional requirements may be influenced by other factors.
Total fat is needed for good health.
Fats supply energy and essential fatty acids and promote absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins A, D and E. However, high levels of saturated fat and cholesterol in the diet are linked to increased blood cholesterol levels and greater risk of heart disease. Since there are nine calories in each gram of fat, a person who consumes 2400 calories a day should have less than 80 grams of total fat. Saturated Fat has been shown to increase the total blood cholesterol level. Eating too much fat or cholesterol, has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Cholesterol is essential to our well-being, as it helps to build cell membranes, to produce hormones, and to manufacture bile acids.