Andrea N. Bailey
The brain is more than 60% fat. This is because the axons that connect all the parts of the bin are covered by myelin sheath that is composed of about 75% fat Omega 3 fatty acids are important to the optimum performance of the brain. Deficiency of omega-3 fats in the diet can lead to depression, poor memory, low IQ, learning disabilities, ADD and many more problems ("Brain Food", 2009). Oily fish like salmon, sardines, trout, tuna, mackerel and anchovies are a good source of omega 3 fatty acids.
Fats are a very important source of energy. Fat is stored in the body in special cells called adipose cells. Fats and lipids are needed by the body to act as insulation, give and reserve a supply of energy and help our vital organs such as the heart and kidneys. Too much fat can cause health problems. Fats belong to a large group of compounds called lipids which include fats and oils. Fatty acids are organic compounds containing three elements carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. They can be saturated depending upon the amount of hydrogen in the molecule. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are the ones missing four or more hydrogen atoms. Generally a healthy diet should minimize the consumption of saturated fatty acids.
Fatty acids can be produced by the body from the chemicals found in fats. A small number of essential fatty acids cannot be produced by the body and they must be obtained from the diet. Linoleic acid is an important essential fatty acid. Cholesterol, a fat-like substance is found in every cell in the body and is very important in serving to many functions in the body. It is part of the skin tissue and helps the transport of essential fatty acids in the body, and in the production of hormones. The body makes the cholesterol that it needs.
The fats also transport vitamins and serve as a source of essential fatty acids. Sources of fat are butter, margarine, salad dressings, oils, vegetable shortenings, egg yolks, many dairy products, nuts, meats and avocados.
