Fat is one of the three macronutrients which provide energy for the proper functioning of the metabolic system. It is an essential nutrient, which is necessary to keep us healthy, both saturated (bad fat) and unsaturated (good fat) fats are an essential part of our daily diet. Both saturated and unsaturated fats are involved in the foods which we eat.
There are huge differences between saturated and unsaturated fats. Let us explore more in detail about the differences between these two types of fat including their importance, impact on our body and their main sources.
Nutritionists would advise their patients that, for a healthy body it is essential to include both saturated and unsaturated fats in our diet. But, to understand which type of fat is healthier is quite challenging. Saturated fats would clog arteries that might increase the risk of cardiac disease, while unsaturated fats help to keep the proper body functioning.
Difference Between Saturated Fats And Unsaturated Fats
| Saturated Fats | Unsaturated Fats |
| Contains a single bond. | Contains at least one double bond. |
| Not to be consumed more than 10 percent of total calories per day. | Not to be consumed more than 30 percent of total calories per day. |
| Excessive consumption leads to heart diseases. | Good for consumption, but excessive may increase cholesterol. |
| Increases low- density lipoproteins (LDL), which is called as bad cholesterol. | Increases High-density lipoprotein (HDL), which is commonly known as good cholesterol and also reduce low-density lipoproteins (LDL). |
| Would not spoil quickly. | Spoil quickly. |
| Foods sources of saturated fats are whole milk, butter, cheese, margarine, coconut oil, vegetable oil, meat, peanut, fried foods, etc. | Foods sources of unsaturated fats are walnuts, flax, avocado, sunflower oil, soybean oil, fish oil, canola oil, red meat, etc. |
| High melting point. | Low melting point. |
| Solid state in room temperature. | Liquid state in room temperature. |
To know more about saturated and unsaturated fats, visit BYJU’S.
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