The Truth about Fats

Fat.   Even though the name conjures up images of gluttony and greed it is a necessary part of survival.  Fats are contained in adipose tissue, the fat that is stored in the body for later use such as keeping warm or food reserve during time of famine.  But that is not the fat that we are discussing.  We are talking about fats found in food.

Fats are categorized as two distinct types:  Saturated and unsaturated.

Saturated fats are solid at room temperature.  This is the fat found in animal products, some dairy products, and palm and coconut oils. These fats are those associated with increased risks of heart problems.

Unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature and lower melting points in comparison to saturated fats.  These fats are:  Monosaturated, polysaturated, Omega 3, 6, 9 fatty acids and transfats.

Omega 3 fatty acids are the healthy fats we find in salmon, flax seeds, walnuts,  soybeans,  and some shellfish.

Omega 6 fatty acids are the fats found in young turkey, vegetable oil, safflower oil, sunflower seeds, and almonds.

Omega 9 fatty acids are the fats found in olive oil, avocados, cashews, pastachios, almonds, and pecans.

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