Getting to Know Fats

Fats are components of the nervous system, in the form f fatty acids. Fat is needed for the absorption of the fat-soluble vitamins D, K, E, and A. While they are essential to the body, they also produce a high level of calories: nine calories for every one gram of fat. The type of fat you choose can be directly linked to cardio-vascular diseases, primarily clogged arteries, heat attacks and stokes.

Fats are divided into two categories: saturated and unsaturated. Unsaturated fat comes from plants and provides essential fatty acids. They have a health benefit in that they lower LDL (low-density lipoproteins, also called "bad" proteins). Examples of unsaturated fats are canola oil, olive oil, soy oil, nuts, and seeds.