Chapter 2: Dietary Fat Requirements in Adults

Fatty acid requirements vary according to age and physiological status. Most existing guidelines recommend a total fatty acid intake below 40% of the total energy intake (TEI), a saturated fatty acid intake below 10% of TEI, a trans-fatty acid intake below 2% of TEI, and an eicosapentaenoic + docosahexaenoic acid intake between 0.25 and 0.6 g per day. Recommendations regarding intake of monounsaturated (MUFA) or polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) are less consensual, most scientific bodies recommending an intake higher than the current one. Adequate intake of fatty acids can be achieved by a diet rich in vegetable products and avoiding ultra-processed or deep-fried products.