What is the difference between saturated and unsaturated fats?

The distinction between saturated and unsaturated fats primarily revolves around their chemical structure. Saturated fats contain no double bonds between the carbon atoms in their fatty acid chains. This absence of double bonds allows the molecules to pack closely together, resulting in a more solid form at room temperature. Examples of saturated fats include butter and coconut oil.

On the other hand, unsaturated fats have one or more double bonds in their fatty acid chains. These double bonds introduce kinks in the structure, which prevents the molecules from packing tightly together, making them liquid at room temperature. Common sources of unsaturated fats include olive oil and avocados.

Understanding these structural differences is fundamental for recognizing how the body processes these types of fats and their effects on health, such as cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk.