Nutrition and Unsaturated Fat Saturated Essay

Submitted By sfdiva89
Words: 380
Pages: 2

Biology Lipid Research

Differences Between Saturated And Unsaturated Fat

SATURATED FAT
UNSATURATED FAT
Structure
Hydrocarbon chain saturated with hydrogen
Molecule contains only single bonds
Hydrocarbon chain not saturated with hydrogen at least one double bond in molecule

Monounsaturated has one double bond
Polyunsaturated has more than one double bond can become saturated during hydrogenation process
Melting Point
High
Low
Physical State At Room Temperature
Solid (Trans Fats & Saturated Fats); stable
Liquid (Monounsaturated & Polyunsaturated Fats- Omega 3's & 9's); softer, can be oils
Health Effects
Excessive consumption is not good because of their association with atherosclerosis (arteries become narrowed by a gradual build-up of fatty material) and heart diseases.

Increases the amount of cholesterol in the blood, which can increase the risk of developing coronary heart disease.
Unsaturated fats are considered good to eat if you are watching your cholesterol. Also high in antioxidants.

Cholesterol
Saturated fats increase Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL or bad cholesterol).

Sources of bad cholesterol are foods rich in trans fatty acids, refined carbohydrates, such as white sugar, and flour.
Unsaturated fats increase High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL or good cholesterol) and decrease Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL or bad cholesterol).

Sources of HDL include onions and Omega-3 fatty acids like flax oil, fish, foods rich in fiber like grains.
Commonly Found In
Animal Products:
Butter, coconut oil, whole milk, meat, peanut, butter, margarine, cheese, vegetable oil,