Hertfordshire Community Eating Disorders Service (CEDS)
Fats
Body fat keeps us warm. It protects our vital organs from impact, like falls or knocks.
Dietary fat provides the essential fatty acids linolenic acid (omega 3
and omega 6 fatty acids).
We need these on a daily basis because:
They are very important in improving brain function when returning to a normal
weight after being a low weight
They are essential for brain function, including the brain development of unborn
babies
They have a role in preventing heart disease
Fats provide the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K, all of which are essential.
Fats contribute to the structure of blood vessels, and form a major component of the
cell wall. A low fat intake will therefore increase the risk of bruising very easily, and
affect skin health.
Fats transports cholesterol around the body. Many people who are low weight can
have a high cholesterol level, which reduces if fat is added to the diet and weight is
gained.
Fat contributes to the structure of hormones, such as oestrogen. A lack of oestrogen
will lead to lack of periods, which increases the risk of osteoporosis. Therefore a diet
low in fat may delay the return of menstruation, or the body may need to be a higher
weight before periods return if a low fat diet is consumed.
Fats provide a concentrated form of energy when food is not available.
Dietary fat helps increase feelings of fullness, therefore reducing the risk of bingeing.
Fat gives taste and aroma to food, as well as making it tender.
Energy from Fat
 1g of fat provides 9 kcal
 An average portion of fat food (e.g. the butter/margarine on 2 slices of bread)
contains around 10g of fat.
How much fat do we need?
 Women need to consume between 65 and 77g of fat per day, whereas men need
to have between 83 and 97g of fat a day to meet the basic requirements
 Around half of dietary fat should come from foods naturally high in fat (e.g.
cheese, oily fish, meat, nuts, seeds) and the rest should come from the fats
added to foods or used in cooking (oils, butter, margarine).

What is a healthy level of body fat?
 A healthy fat level is approximately 20-25% of body weight for females and 1015% for males
 Levels lower than this are likely to lead to reduced resistance to disease,
weakness, irritability, increased risk of bingeing and reduced fertility.
Reference “Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Eating Disorders: a comprehensive treatment guide” (2007) Waller et al