Saturated fats

Definition

Saturated fats are a type of dietary fat that are typically solid at room temperature. They are found primarily in animal products and some plant oils.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Saturated fats can raise levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
2. Common sources of saturated fats include red meat, butter, cheese, and coconut oil.
3. The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat intake to less than 6% of total daily calories.
4. Unlike unsaturated fats, saturated fats have no double bonds between carbon molecules because they are fully saturated with hydrogen atoms.
5. Excessive consumption of saturated fats has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

Review Questions

• What impact do saturated fats have on LDL cholesterol levels?
• Name three common dietary sources of saturated fats.
• Why does the American Heart Association recommend limiting the intake of saturated fats?

Related terms

Unsaturated Fats: Fats that have one or more double bonds in their fatty acid chains, typically found in vegetables, nuts, and fish.

Trans Fats:

A type of unsaturated fat that has been chemically altered through hydrogenation to be solid at room temperature.

LDL Cholesterol:

Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol often referred to as 'bad' cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries.