Why Do We Need Fat?

Fat plays many important roles in keeping our bodies healthy and functioning properly. While the type and amount of fat we consume matters, dietary fat is an essential part of a balanced diet.

Our bodies need fat to:

Support brain health and function — fats are important structural components of the brain and help support normal brain function.
Maintain a healthy nervous system — fats are an important part of nerve-cell membranes and the protective myelin surrounding many nerves.
Absorb fat-soluble vitamins — vitamins A, D, E, and K require dietary fat for proper absorption.
Provide essential fatty acids — omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids cannot be made by the body in sufficient amounts and must come from our diet.
Build healthy cells — fats are a major component of cell membranes throughout the body.
Support hormone production and signaling — fats and fatty acids are involved in the production and regulation of several important signaling molecules.
Provide and store energy — fat is a concentrated source of energy and helps provide fuel between meals and during longer periods of activity.
Protect and cushion our organs — stored body fat provides physical protection around vital organs.
Help regulate body temperature — body fat provides insulation and helps conserve heat.
Increase satisfaction and fullness after meals — fat slows stomach emptying and can help meals feel more satisfying.
Support healthy skin and hair — essential fatty acids contribute to normal skin-barrier function and overall skin health.
Make nutritious foods more enjoyable — fat carries flavor and improves texture, which can make a nourishing diet more satisfying and sustainable.