Fat is a nutrient that the body needs in very limited amounts for lubrication and for transporting fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K). When eaten in excess, fat

• Increases your cholesterol level and in turn your risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Increases your risk of developing cancer, particularly of the colon.
• Increases your risk of gall bladder disease.
• Elevates your blood pressure, regardless of your weight.
• Makes you fat!

People need to eat carbohydrates and proteins at each meal; they don't need fats in the quantities the average person consumes. One ounce of fat supplies twice the number of calories as one ounce of carbohydrate or protein. Research shows that fats from foods are stored as fat on the body more readily than carbohydrates or proteins. Fewer fats in your diet means less fat on your body and less cholesterol in your blood.