Different types of fats are a regular part of our daily diet. One example of a beneficial fat is monounsaturated fats found in foods like avocados and olive oil. On the other hand, trans fats, such as those found in bacon and fast food, are considered unhealthy. Since fats are not soluble in water, the body employs complex processes, including emulsification, to break them down and facilitate absorption (Calabrese et al., 2015). When fats reach the stomach, digestion begins immediately. Bile is released into the small intestine, along with a pancreatic enzyme called lipase, to break down the fats for proper absorption in the small intestine. The molecular structure of fats determines their characteristics. Saturated fatty acids lack double bonds between carbon atoms, while unsaturated fatty acids contain at least one double bond in the fatty chain (Thompson & Manore, 2016). Saturated fats, such as animal fat, are solid at room temperature, whereas unsaturated fats like olive oil are typically liquid at room temperature (Romito, 2019). Although our bodies require fat for energy and various functions, overconsumption of unhealthy fats can have negative consequences, including heart disease and stroke. Solid fats can accumulate in arteries, leading to the blockage of blood vessels and insufficient blood flow to the heart and brain (Wax, 2018). My recent learning about the digestion and absorption of fats in the body has made me realize the importance of organ cooperation. In cases where the gallbladder becomes filled with stones or infected, some individuals may need to have it removed. Without the bile salts produced by the gallbladder, the process of digesting fats becomes more challenging for the body. BIOL 2320 Week 2 Discussion
References:
Calabrese, A., Gibby, C., Meinke, B., & Program, H. N. (2015). Digestion and Absorption of Lipids. Human Nutrition DEPRECATED. http://pressbooks-dev.oer.hawaii.edu/humannutrition/chapter/digestion-and-absorption-of-lipids/.
Thompson, J., & Manore, M. (2016). Nutrition for life. Pearson Education, Inc.
Romito, K. (2019). Types of Fats. https://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/aa160619.
Wax, E. (2018). Facts about saturated fats: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000838.htm.
