Evidence supporting the use of: Total Fat
For the health condition: Convalescence

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Total Fat plays a crucial role in supporting convalescence, which refers to the recovery period following illness, surgery, or injury. Scientific evidence supports the inclusion of adequate dietary fat during convalescence for several reasons. Fats are a dense source of energy, providing 9 kcal per gram, which is especially important when energy requirements are elevated due to healing processes. In addition, certain fatty acids—specifically essential fatty acids like linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid—are necessary for cell membrane integrity, inflammation modulation, and tissue repair.

Clinical nutrition guidelines, such as those from the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) and the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN), recommend the inclusion of appropriate amounts of fat in the diets of patients recovering from illness. Fats also aid in the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K), which are important for immune function and healing.

However, the type and amount of fat are important; excessive saturated fat may have negative health consequences, while unsaturated fats (from sources like fish, nuts, and vegetable oils) are generally recommended. Overall, the scientific consensus is that dietary fat, in the right balance, is essential for optimal recovery during convalescence, with a significant body of clinical and physiological evidence supporting its use.

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Products containing Total Fat

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