Welcome to the third and final unit in this nutrition basics series. The first unit covered protein, the second carbohydrate, now learn about the third type of macronutrient: fat. Fat is often misunderstood and has a bad reputation. While it’s true there are certain types of fats (like trans fats) that are unhealthy and should be avoided, other types of fat (like omega-3s) are actually good for you and a necessary part of the diet. 

In this unit, Dr. Applegate dives into the different types of fats and their structure, explaining why some are liquid while others are solid at room temperature, which ones to avoid and which are essential. Learn why fat is so important as an energy source and the role it plays in the body’s structure. Dr. Applegate also covers the digestion and utilization of fat in the body and how it compares to protein and carbohydrate metabolism. Finally, she will go over recommendations for how much and what types of fat you should get in your diet, as well the health dangers of overconsumption.

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Your Instructor

Dr. Liz Applegate
NeoLife Scientific Advisory Board (SAB)

Dr. Applegate earned her B.S. in Biochemistry, and her Ph.D., in Nutrition Science both at the University of California, Davis. Dr. Applegate is a faculty member Emerita of the Nutrition Department, and the former Director of Sports Nutrition at the University of California, Davis. Dr. Applegate held a position on the editorial board of the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism for the past 29 years. She is also a fellow of the American College of Sports Medicine, and a member of the Sports and Cardiovascular Nutritionists, a practice group of the American Dietetic Association.

Dr. Applegate is a nationally renowned expert on nutrition and fitness, she is a Distinguished Senior Lecturer Emerita at the University of California, Davis where she continues to educate students on the importance of good nutrition and fitness through online access. Dr. Applegate provided nutrition consultation for collegiate and continues advising fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes as well as food companies, and frequently serves as a keynote speaker at industry, athletic and scientific meetings.

Her passion and enthusiasm for educating people on nutrition, fitness and health has been acknowledged by numerous awards for teaching, research and most recently California Legislature State Resolution 2019 for her service to the state and teaching over 66,000 students in her career. Dr. Applegate is the author of several books and has written more than 400 articles for national magazines. She has regularly appeared on international, national and local radio and television shows, and is frequently quoted in magazines and newspapers.

Liz Applegate, Ph.D., Nutrition, Sports Nutritionist