Fats

From WikiMD.org
Jump to navigation Jump to search

Fats

Fats (/fæts/) are a group of compounds that are generally soluble in organic solvents and largely insoluble in water. Chemically, fats are triglycerides, triesters of glycerol and any of several fatty acids. Fats may be either solid or liquid at room temperature, depending on their structure and composition.

Etymology

The term "fat" is derived from the Old English fætt, which means crammed or adorned; it was originally used to describe plump or well-fed people or animals.

Types of Fats

There are several types of fats, including:

  • Saturated fats: These fats are typically solid at room temperature and are found in animal products and tropical oils.
  • Unsaturated fats: These fats are typically liquid at room temperature and are found in plants and fish. They can be further divided into monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats.
  • Trans fats: These are a type of unsaturated fat that are uncommon in nature but can be created artificially.

Health Effects

Fats play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin and hair, insulating body organs against shock, maintaining body temperature, and promoting healthy cell function. However, not all fats are equal in terms of their effects on the body. For example, trans fats are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, while unsaturated fats are considered beneficial for heart health.

Related Terms

  • Lipids: A group of naturally occurring molecules that include fats, waxes, sterols, fat-soluble vitamins (such as vitamins A, D, E, and K), monoglycerides, diglycerides, triglycerides, and phospholipids.
  • Cholesterol: A type of fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. It is used to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: A type of polyunsaturated fat that is beneficial for heart health.

External links

Esculaap.svg

This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.


Languages: - East Asian 中文, 日本, 한국어, South Asian हिन्दी, Urdu, বাংলা, తెలుగు, தமிழ், ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian Indonesian, Vietnamese, Thai, မြန်မာဘာသာ, European español, Deutsch, français, русский, português do Brasil, Italian, polski