Dietary Fat



The National Center of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity offers the balance between the benefits of fats and controlling intake of fats to prevent high cholesterol and obesity. Health Managers, Nutritionists, and Consultants working with Head Start programs and other child care agencies may use this information for staff working with children and parents.

Dietary Fat Your body uses carbohydrates (carbs) to make glucose which is the fuel that gives you energy and helps keep everything going. Your body can use glucose immediately or store it in your liver and muscles for when it is needed. You can find carbohydrates in the following: Fruits Vegetables Breads, cereals, and other grains Milk and milk products Foods containing added sugars (e.g., cakes, cookies, and sugar-sweetened beverages). Healthier foods higher in carbohydrates include ones that provide dietary fiber and whole grains as well as those without added sugars. What about foods higher in carbohydrates such as sodas and candies that also contain added sugars? Those are the ones that add extra calories but not many nutrients to your diet.

Dietary Fat. Nutrition for Everyone. CDC/NCCDPHP/DNPAO. 2008. English.