Bodybuilding Forum

lora2004 · Joined: 30 Oct 2006 Posts: 8 Location: uk

"Fats are mainly made up of triglycerides (3 fatty acid molecules attached to a glycerol backbone). Fatty acids are carbon chains with hydrogen atoms attached. Fats can be broke down into 2 groups, saturated and unsaturated, so what’s the difference? Well saturated fatty acids have no double carbon bond and all the carbon atoms are saturated with the hydrogen ions that are attached. Saturated fatty acids are generally considered bad for health.
Unsaturated fatty acids have one or more double carbon bonds; this reduces the number of hydrogen atoms attached on the fatty acid carbon chain. Unsaturated fatty acids can be broken down into 2 further groups. Monounsaturated, (one double carbon bond) and Polyunsaturated, (two or more double carbon bonds).
Fats are one of the three main macronutrients required for the body to function optimally. Fats are the body’s slow source of energy. Fats are used for energy during low intensity activities such as walking, and simply carrying out daily tasks. Carbohydrates however are used by the body as a quick store of energy during high intensity activities such as running and weight training. As well as being a source of energy, fats also play a large part in other bodily functions. Here are a few of the main jobs of fats:
- Transport fat soluble vitamins
- Regulate Blood cholesterol levels
- Provide a slow release of energy
- Provide protection to vital organs.
- Act as shock absorbers.
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