Fat

Fat: One of the three nutrients that are used as energy sources (calories) by the body. (The other energy sources are in the form of carbohydrates and proteins. Intake of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can help to reduce blood cholesterol when substituted for saturated fats in the diet. Total fat is the sum of saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fats. The energy produced by fats is 9 calories per gram. Proteins and carbohydrates each provide 4 calories per gram. The word fat comes from the Old English faett meaning to cram or adorn. A slang term for obese or adipose. In chemistry, fats are compounds formed from chemicals called fatty acids. These fats compose a greasy, solid material found in animal tissues and in some plants. Fats are the major component of flabby material of our bodies, commonly known as blubber.