In nutrition, biology, and chemistry, fat usually means any ester of fatty acids, or a mixture of such compounds, most commonly those that occur in living beings or in food. [1] The fats in your food don’t automatically turn into body fat (adipose tissue). Your body only stores fat if you take in more calories from protein, carbs or fats than your body needs to burn for energy.

Understanding the Context

What Is Fat? Types & Why You Need Fats - Cleveland Clinic : any of numerous compounds of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen that are glycerides of fatty acids, are the chief constituents of plant and animal fat, are a major class of energy-rich food, and are soluble in organic solvents (as ether) but not in water The American Heart Association suggests that 8-10 percent of daily calories should come from polyunsaturated fats, and there is evidence that eating more polyunsaturated fat—up to 15 percent of daily calories—in place of saturated fat can lower heart disease risk. fat, any substance of plant or animal origin that is nonvolatile, insoluble in water, and oily or greasy to the touch. Together with animal and vegetable oils, fats comprise one of the three principal classes of foodstuffs, the others being proteins and carbohydrates.

Key Insights

Fats that are found in our foods can be part of a healthy diet. Fats are essential to our health, including giving us energy and helping our body absorb vitamins. Different types of fats also can have different effects on the cholesterol levels in your body. Unhealthy Fats: Saturated and Trans Fats The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fats and avoiding trans fats. The ...

Final Thoughts

Check our body fat percentage chart to learn the healthy ranges for your age & gender. Understand how to interpret the results in this comprehensive guide.