Everyone should be concerned with the types and amounts of fat in the diet, no matter their age, gender, or weight. Fat supplies the body with essential fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, which is responsible for proper growth and development. Fat cells also cushion organs and act as insulation against cold temperatures. All fats contain 9 calories per gram . The difference between the two is found in their chemical makeup.
Unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature and are missing at least one hydrogen atom.
Saturated fats are solid at room temperature and do not bond to additional hydrogen atoms. This is the type of fat you should avoid in your diet. Saturated fat contributes to an increased risk of heart disease and some forms of cancer. This type of fat is found primarily in animal products, especially red meats, lard, butter, whole-milk products and the skin of poultry. Two vegetable oils, palm and coconut, also contain saturated fat.