Dietary fats

Dietary fats

Fats are important for good health and proper functioning of the body. They are an important source of energy, they enhance the absorption of fat soluble vitamins, and build all our cell membranes. Our brains are mainly made of fats.

A balanced intake of fats is important, as too little or too much, or the wrong type of fat, may negatively affect our health. Adults should get a recommended 20-35% of their energy intake from fat. Less than 10% should come from saturated fat, and trans-fats should be avoided.


Is dark chocolate good for weight loss?

28 June 2024

Dark chocolate’s polyphenols may offer health benefits. However, it’s also high in sugars and saturated fat, and may lead to weight gain if eaten in excess.


The importance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

27 March 2019

The beneficial effects of consuming omega-3 fatty acids are well publicised, but omega-6 fatty acids feature far less in the news. So what are fatty acids and why is it important that we get the balance right?


Dietary fats (Infographic)

09 June 2016

Why do we need dietary fats?


Facts about Fats

22 September 2015

Fats are important for good health and proper functioning of the body. They are a source of energy, essential fats and enhance the absorption of fat soluble vitamins. However, too much fat and/or the wrong type of fat may negatively affect our health.


The Functions of Fats in the Body

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This review is dedicated to the current advances in nutrition science on the relation between dietary fat consumption and health outcomes, including obesity and cardiovascular disease. 


Olive oil: How is it produced? (Infographic)

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From pressing to refining, see how olive oil is produced through all the various stages.


Functions, Classification And Characteristics Of Fats

25 March 2014

What are dietary fats? Read about the classification of fats, their different characteristics, and functions in both, the body and food technology.


How to choose your culinary oil

12 February 2014

There is an increasing variety of vegetable oils for cooking and food preparation. How do you decide which one to use? Considerations include taste, functional properties of the oil, cost, and the health impact...


Omega-3 fatty acids: where to find them?

03 July 2003

Although no single food alone can make a person healthy, eating more fish is one way that most of us can help improve our diets—and our health. Many of the studies about beneficial omega-3 fatty acids focus on fish as the primary source. Salmon, sardines, tuna and even shellfish are rich in omega-3 fatty acid content, but increasing your consumption of all types of fish and seafood is recommended.