Fats are large molecules called triglycerides, which are composed of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule. Fatty acids, on the other hand, are long chains of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached. They are the building blocks of fats.
Here's a simple analogy: Think of a brick house. The house is like a fat molecule, and each individual brick is like a fatty acid. You need many bricks to build a house, just as you need many fatty acids to make a fat molecule.
To sum up:
- Fats are a type of lipid that are made up of three fatty acids and a glycerol molecule.
- Fatty acids are long chains of carbon atoms with hydrogen atoms attached, which are the building blocks of fats.
Fats are essential for many bodily functions, including energy storage, insulation, and hormone production. However, it is important to consume a healthy balance of fats, as some types of fat can be harmful to your health.