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In our ongoing effort to discuss and define proper nutrition, we have covered carbohydrates and now move on to fats in your diet. Dietary fat is the most concentrated source of energy provided by the diet. When oxidized, fat yields more than three times the amount of energy than amino acids or glucose.
In addition to providing energy to the body, dietary fats also play a role in the absorption of the fat soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K) and in bionutrient conversions, such as the conversion of carotene to vitamin A. Dietary fats are also instrumental in regulating the digestion and absorption of food by slowing the secretion of hydrochloric acid in the stomach which prolongs the emptying time and creates a longer lasting sensation of fullness after a meal.
There are two types of fatty acids which give fats their distinct flavors, textures and melting points. They are referred to as “saturated” and “unsaturated” fatty acids. Each classification exemplifies the ratio of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids within fat containing foods. For example, the predominant composition of saturated fats is saturated fatty acids; therefore, foods considered rich in saturated fats such as beef, whole milk, cheese, butter and cream have a higher percentage of saturated fatty acids than unsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, foods that are rich in saturated fatty acids are also usually high in cholesterol. Plant and vegetable derived foods such as peanut butter, oatmeal, plants, seeds and nuts are rich in unsaturated fatty acids contain no cholesterol and are therefore a preferable source of dietary fat.
Although dietary fats are looked upon as an undesirable nutritional component, they are quite necessary as they provide the body with the essential fatty acids, linoleic acid and alpha linolenic acid. Fortunately, the essential fatty acids can be easily obtained from many foods such as vegetable oil which contains 50% linoleic acid. Incidentally, linoleic and linolenic acid are vital for normal growth, a healthy circulatory and nervous system and for keeping the skin and other tissues of the body fit and youthful.
In health and honor,
Will Smith aka THUNDER
William Smith is the President / CEO and Founder of the INTRAFITT Corporation which was established in California in 1992. Will has won more than twenty-eight bodybuilding championships and is also known for his role as “THUNDER” on television’s American Gladiator between 1990 – 1992. He is a National and International Speaker on Performance Nutrition and Exercise Science.
**Should you have a question regarding nutrition or exercise techniques, send an email to gladiator@intrafitt.com
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