Describe various types of fats. What …

Fats: Fats and oils are important items in the diet of sportsmen. They contain carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. They are composed of fatty acids. Fats are a better source of energy than carbohydrates. Fat can be stored in the body. It is also known as fuel. Energy is produced by their burning process. 

Dietary fats are derived from two main sources: 

(a) Vegetable source: They include various edible oils like ground nut, mustard, cotton seed, coconut oil, rape seed etc. 

(b) Animal Source: They include butter, ghee, lard, fish oil, and certain marine fish oil such as cod-liver oil and sardine oil etc. 

Functions: 

(a) Fats improve the palatability of food. They are essential for the absorption of vitamins A, D, E and K. 

(b) Fats are concentrated source of energy 

(c) Fats impart firmness to the tissues. 

(d) Fats protect delicate organs against being injured.