Biology - Fats

Introduction

• Fat is a significant foodstuff for many forms of life.

• Fats serve structural as well as metabolic functions.

• The fats are molecules made up of glycerol and fatty acid.

• Fat is an organic compound of hydrogen, carbon, oxygen.

• Based on the number and bonding of the carbon atoms, fats and oils, are categorized in the aliphatic chain.

Functions of Fats

• Following are the major functions of Fats −

  • Fat is a vital dietary requirement.

  • The fat is usually the stored source of energy in the body that remained store beneath the skin.

  • Fat acts a protective layer especially in the human body and provide protection.

  • Some of the vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K are fat-soluble, which means they can only be absorbed, digested, and transported in conjunction with the fats.

  • Fats actively help in maintaining the healthy skin and hair.

  • Fats insulate body organs against external shock.

  • Fats also maintain body temperature.

  • Fats promote healthy cell function.

Types of Fats

• Following are the major types of Fats −

Unsaturated Fats

• The fats that remain in the liquid form at room temperature are known as unsaturated fats.

• Unsaturated fats are beneficial for health, as it improves blood cholesterol levels, stabilize heart beats, etc.

• Unsaturated fats are commonly found in vegetable oils, nuts, and many seeds.

Saturated Fats

• Saturated fats have no double bonds between the carbons found in its chain.

• Saturated fats can easily solidify and typically found in solid form at room temperature.

• Saturated fats are found in animals’ meat, cheese, ice cream, etc.