Which statement about fats is true?

Which statement about fats is true?

• A. Fats are never used by the body for energy.
• B. Fats improve hydration.
• C. Fats are the primary source of energy for high-intensity exercise.
• D. Fats help transport fat-soluble vitamins through the body.

Answer: (D)

Fats help transport fat-soluble vitamins through the body. Vitamins A, D, E, and K dissolve in fat, so they’re absorbed in the small intestine only when dietary fat is present. After fats are digested, these vitamins ride along with fat molecules and are packaged into chylomicrons that enter the lymphatic system and then the bloodstream, delivering the vitamins to tissues throughout the body. Without adequate dietary fat, absorption of these vitamins decreases, which can lead to deficiencies even if the vitamins are consumed. Some other statements miss the point: fats do provide energy, especially at rest and during lower-intensity activity, but they aren’t the primary energy source during high-intensity exercise where carbohydrates dominate. Hydration concerns are about fluids and electrolytes, not fat content.

Fats help transport fat-soluble vitamins through the body. Vitamins A, D, E, and K dissolve in fat, so they’re absorbed in the small intestine only when dietary fat is present. After fats are digested, these vitamins ride along with fat molecules and are packaged into chylomicrons that enter the lymphatic system and then the bloodstream, delivering the vitamins to tissues throughout the body. Without adequate dietary fat, absorption of these vitamins decreases, which can lead to deficiencies even if the vitamins are consumed.

Some other statements miss the point: fats do provide energy, especially at rest and during lower-intensity activity, but they aren’t the primary energy source during high-intensity exercise where carbohydrates dominate. Hydration concerns are about fluids and electrolytes, not fat content.