What are fats and oils primarily used for in the body?

Fats and oils serve several essential functions in the body, with one of their primary roles being as a concentrated source of energy. They provide more than double the energy per gram compared to carbohydrates and proteins, making them an efficient energy reserve. Additionally, they play a critical role in the transport of fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E, and K. These vitamins require fats for their absorption and utilization in the body.

When consuming a balanced diet that includes fats, the body can effectively absorb these important nutrients, which are vital for numerous physiological functions including vision, bone health, antioxidant activity, and blood clotting. This dual role of providing energy and facilitating vitamin transport underscores the importance of fats and oils in dietary health and nutrition.