Most Canadians Need To Eat Less Fat. Fat Facts Fat is a nutrient that is found naturally in food or is added to food for flavour. Fat is a source of essential nutrients such as linoleic acid and vitamins A, D, E and K. Fat provides energy, protects vital organs and maintains body temperature. Fat is an important part of body cells and helps maintain healthy skin. A gram of fat supplies 9 calories while a gram of protein or carbohydrate gives only 4 calories.
Some fat is necessary for good health.
Here are some ways to help you eat less fat. Read the label. Most foods have some nutrition labelling. You can choose lower fat milk products by looking for the letters M.F. or B.F. on the label. The number in front of the letters tells you the amount of fat in the milk product.