Although protein tends to get all the glory when it comes to physical activity, carbohydrates and fats are also important. Both provide energy along with a host of other important functions.

Learn why fats are important for our bodies.

3 main types of dietary fats

1. Unsaturated fats

Unsaturated fats are liquid at room temperature and are generally considered healthy fats. There are two types of unsaturated fats – monounsaturated and polyunsaturated. Omega-3 is a type of polyunsaturated fat.

Research shows that regular consumption of unsaturated fats can provide various health benefits, such as improving heart health and reducing the risk of death.

Your body cannot produce Omega-3 on its own, but it is important for healthy brain function.

2. Saturated fats

Saturated fats are solid at room temperature and are usually found in animal products and some plants.

Saturated fats have long been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, inflammation and unhealthy cholesterol levels.

New research shows that the so-called dangerous saturated fats are actually not as dangerous as we thought. Scientists still recommend approaching them with caution and, although they should not be completely eliminated from the diet, their consumption should still be kept to a minimum.

3. Trans Fats

Artificially produced trans fats are made by processing vegetable oil. They are also known as partially hydrogenated oil.

Small amounts of naturally occurring trans fats can be found in beef and dairy fat.

Consumption of trans fats has been linked to health problems, such as unhealthy cholesterol levels, increased inflammation, and insulin resistance.

The use of partially hydrogenated oil is now banned in the US, and in the UK, trans fats are still found in many ultra-processed and fast foods.