Dietary Fats Facts: Good Fats vs. Trans Fat Risks

What gives the most energy per gram: fat, protein, or carbs? Distinguish between heart-healthy lipids and dangerous trans fats, and learn how medium-chain triglycerides and coconut oil impact your body.

List of Foods With Lipids

Published Nov,17 2018 | By Karen Gardner

Your body uses lipids, or fats, for insulation, to cushion organs and as a source of stored energy. Dietary fats also help your body to absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Healthy adults should get 20 percent to 35 percent of total calories from fat, or 45 to 78 grams per day on a 2,000-calorie diet.

Karen Gardner is a former features editor and daily newspaper reporter. She is passionate about running, cycling and fitness. She devours nutrition advice, and prefers the mantra "Eat to live," but with a little good taste thrown in. She has run a dozen marathons, including two Bostons (as a qualifier) and one New York. She's always looking for the latest fitness research, and is passionate about exercising with her dog. She is also an avid horseback rider. She can be found in the gym several times a week, but prefers to get most of her fitness outdoors.