Don't Underestimate Fat Functions

Fats in the body are often considered to interfere with appearance or health. Though the function of fat for the body is very much. The presence of fat in the body will only interfere with appearance and endanger health if the amount is excessive.

Fat is one of the nutrients needed by the body, such as proteins and carbohydrates. The body needs fat that cannot be produced by itself, for example omega-3 fatty acids. The presence of fat in your food portion is important to maintain a balanced and healthy diet.

Various Functions of Fat for the Human Body

As mentioned above, the body needs fat in carrying out daily activities. There are several functions of fat that are good for the human body, including:

Helps the body absorb vitamins A, D and E
Some types of vitamins are a type of fat-soluble vitamin. So, to be absorbed by the body, this vitamin requires fat help.

Energy source for the body
Fat can also be useful as a source of energy for the body in carrying out daily activities. However, that does not mean you can consume fat excessively to increase energy.

Helps to nourish skin and hair
In addition to helping the absorption process of a number of vitamins and energy sources for the body, fat also helps maintain healthy skin and hair.

Keep the body warm
Fat has a function as an insulator for the body. The presence of fat can make the body warm, just like when you wear thick clothes.

Protecting organs
Fat also serves to protect body organs from damage. In addition, fat helps to build cells and produce hormones, so the body can function properly.

Variety of Types and Sources of Fat

To get maximum fat function, it's good for you to understand the various types of fats contained in food, including:

Monounsaturated fats
This unsaturated fat can help maintain heart health, by lowering LDL or bad cholesterol and maintaining good HDL or cholesterol levels in the body. This fat can be found in avocados, olive oil, hazelnuts, almonds and nuts.

Polyunsaturated fats
Polyunsaturated fats can help reduce LDL levels in the body. Omega-6 and omega-3 are included in polyunsaturated fats. This fat is widely found in salmon, tuna, walnuts, and flaxseed.

Trans fats
Trans fat is included in the type of fat that is not healthy because it can increase LDL levels in the body, so it can cause stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart problems if consumed in excess. This type of fat is found in many processed products such as French fries, biscuits, donuts, pizza, or popcorn.

Saturated fat
Saturated fats are actually better avoided because they can increase bad cholesterol in the body. Saturated fats will look different in form from unsaturated fats because they usually turn into solid or freeze at ordinary room temperature. This fat can be found in butter, eggs, red meat, milk, cheese, or chicken skin.

Although often an enemy for those who want to lose weight and maintain a healthy body, it does not mean the body does not need fat at all. The function of certain fats is very important in maintaining the balance of nutrition and body health. Most importantly, the fat must be consumed proportionally and not excessive.