FAT seems like a bad word. Every time we turn around we hear somebody telling us to lower our fat intake. Though it is good advice, we don't want to cut out all fat because our bodies can't live without it.

Functions of Fat

• provide us energy
• protect bones, muscles and organs
• insulate us in the cold
• provide us essential fatty acids to build materials for cell membranes, blood clotting, and other body tissues.
• carry fat soluble vitamins (Vitamins A, D, E, and K) throughout the body.

How Much Dietary Fat?
Remember the number 25. At least 25% but no more then 30% of your daily caloric intake should come from fat. More fat than 30% fat can lead to heart disease, certain cancers, adult onset diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. Of the 25-30% of dietary fat, no more then a third of that should be saturated (turn solid at room temperature).

What About Fat Grams?
People who are trying to lose weight should try to limit their fat grams to 25% of their total daily caloric intake. For example, if you consume 2000 calories a day, then approximately 500 calories (2000 multiplied by .25) should come from fat. Fat-free foods contain calories as well, and a calorie is a calorie is a calorie. This means that by consuming too many daily calories (more calories then your body can burn off) you will gain weight.