Fats are created by a glycerol molecule combined with fatty acids. The fatty acids are the part of the fat molecule that provides energy. Fatty acids are long tails of carbon and hydrogen. Saturated and unsaturated fatty acids are defined by the molecule's structure.
Structure
The structure of fats is what defines it as a mono-unsaturated molecule. A mono-unsaturated fat has only one double bond in its carbon-carbon skeleton.
Significance
Fats provide the highest amount of energy available in foods. One gram of a mono-unsaturated fat molecule provides nine calories, which is a unit of energy.
Types
Mono-unsaturated fats are those that remain liquids at room temperature but harden in the refrigerator. Types of these fats are canola, olive, and peanut oils.
Effects
The body uses sugars first for energy. When sugar sources aren't available, it turns to fats, including mono-unsaturated fats.
Warning
Too much fatty food can lead to obesity. Eat fats in moderation especially when trying to lose weight. Read food labels to determine how much fat content is contained in packaged food.
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