Dietary fat is more than a concentrated source of calories: it helps the body maintain temperature, protects organs, forms cell membranes, and supports the transport of certain vitamins. Understanding how fat is digested and used helps explain why it is an essential part of nutrition.
Fat supplies 9 calories per gram, more than twice the 4 calories per gram supplied by carbohydrates and protein. Alcohol supplies 7 calories per gram but is not a macronutrient and does not provide vitamins, minerals, or fiber.
All flashcards
How much energy does fat provide per gram?
Fat provides 9 calories per gram, more than twice the 4 calories per gram provided by carbohydrates or protein.
What are triglycerides?
They are the main form of fat in food, made of three fatty acids attached to one glycerol molecule.
Where does most fat digestion occur, and what are triglycerides broken into?
Most fat digestion occurs in the small intestine, where triglycerides are broken down into smaller components, including monoglycerides and glycerol.
How does cholecystokinin affect fullness?
Intestinal cells release cholecystokinin during fat digestion. It slows gastric emptying, helping food remain in the stomach longer and contributing to fullness.
Which vitamins are fat-soluble, and where can the body store them?
Vitamins A, D, E, and K are fat-soluble. They travel with fat and can be stored in the liver until needed.
Quiz questions
Which structure describes a triglyceride, the main form of fat in food?Answer: Three fatty acids attached to one glycerol molecule
For most people, what percentage of daily calories is recommended to come from fat?Answer: 20–35%
Sunflower and corn oils are sources of which type of polyunsaturated fatty acid?Answer: Omega-6
What effect have artificial trans fats been linked to in cholesterol levels?Answer: Increased LDL and decreased HDL
After gallbladder removal, what dietary advice is commonly given for at least the first week?Answer: Avoid high-fat, fried, and greasy foods
Based on Nutrition for Nurses by Emerald Charity Bilbrew, Jody Vogelzang, Kelli Whittington (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.