Why we need fat in our diet

[Guest guest]

Thought this was interesting.

Why do we need fat in our diet?

Fat provides needed energy. It is difficult to eat the large amounts of food in

a very low fat diet to get all the energy you need.

Fat is needed to prevent essential fatty acid deficiency.

Fat is needed so your body can absorb the fat soluble vitamins A, S, E, K, and

prevent deficiencies of these vitamins.

Fat provides flavor and texture to help prevent food from being bland and dry.

Fat helps food to stay in the stomach longer, giving a greater sense of

satisfaction and preventing hunger soon after meals.

Fat may help your body produce endorphins (natural substances in the brain that

produce pleasurable feelings).

Diets too low in fat (less than 20 - 25%) may trigger cravings.

What does fat do for our body?

Provides back-up energy if blood sugar supplies run out (after 4-6 hours without

food).

Provides insulation under the skin from the cold and the heat.

Join the online Eating Disorder Support Groups including Anorexia, Bulimia, and

Binge

Eating for free and talk to others who are facing the same challenges you are.

Protects organs and bones from shock and provides support for organs.

Fat surrounds and insulates nerve fibers to help transmit nerve impulses.

Fat is part of every cell membrane in the body. It helps transport nutrients

and metabolites across cell membranes.

Your body uses fat to make a variety of other building blocks needed for

everything from hormones to immune function.

What happens when we don't have enough fat in our diet?

Dry, scaly skin

Hair loss

Low body weight

Cold intolerance

Bruising

Poor growth

Lower resistance to infection

Poor wound healing

Loss of menstruation

Constipation