Unit 4 - Lesson 4

Fat is a substance obtained from animals or plants and processed for use in cooking. It is commonly used to add flavor, texture, and richness to dishes. Examples include butter, lard, and various vegetable oils. Fat plays a crucial role in cooking by helping to conduct heat, enhance flavors, and create tender and moist textures in food.

A calorie is a unit of measurement that indicates the amount of energy provided by food and beverages. When food is consumed, the body converts the calories into energy to fuel various physiological processes, such as breathing, circulation, and physical activity. The number of calories in a food item depends on its macronutrient composition: carbohydrates and proteins provide approximately 4 calories per gram, while fats provide about 9 calories per gram. Monitoring calorie intake is important for maintaining a healthy weight, as consuming more calories than the body uses can lead to weight gain, while consuming fewer can result in weight loss.