Saturated Fats

Fat is a macronutrient necessary in our food, it provides us with energy, help to keep the skin soft and it transports soluble vitamins through the blood stream. In the previous article I spoke of dangerous trans fats, today I bring you information with regards to saturated fats. Saturated fats are found in foods which are of animal origin such as milk, cheese and butter, however there are also saturated fats which are from vegetables in origin, such as coconut, Palm, palm kernel oil. An excess in consumption of saturated fat increases cholesterol levels in the blood, increase the risk of decrease glucose tolerance. The World Health Organization recommends that this type of fat intake may not exceed 10% of total energy. If the amount adequate amount is take, saturated fat have some benefits can be reaped, for example, composed 50% lauric acid, coconut oil promotes heart health, a strong immune system and a healthy metabolism, it is source of energy, it rejuvenates the skin, helps the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. In coconut oil lauric acid becomes monolaurina that can destroy lipid-coating such as the HIV virus, measles, the flu virus. This oil is digested rapidly and stimulates the metabolism, providing energy immediately so it is ideal for athletes. It can be used for cooking as it is resistant to damage from heat. Despite the benefits of its consumption, one should take care since it is very high in saturated fat. On the other hand, crude palm oil is rich in carotenoids, which are precursors of vitamin A. The danger of this oil comes when refined since it loses its properties, therefore it is not suitable for cooking and you should take special care in industrial products that contain this type of oil since it could be refined. When you go to buy look at the label of the products, the amount of saturated fat containing, better opt for those that do not contain this type of fat look in nutritional value.

A.P.M

#nutrition5