The type of fat we eat affects us more than just cholesterol. It affects cell structure as well, which is news to me and has be reassessing my relationship with fatty foods (which I love).
Cell membranes: Fat makes up a major part of cell membranes, which control what enters and leaves the cell. Different fats have different structures, which can affect how well the membrane functions. For instance, saturated fats (that we eat) can stiffen the membrane, while unsaturated fats keep it flexible, allowing for better functioning.
Basically, eating meat and dairy has a direct effect on the healthiness of all of our cell structures!
This is from the NIH:
Past research suggests that consuming unsaturated fatty acids, such as those found in fish and peanut butter, protects against certain diseases. In contrast, consuming saturated fatty acids, such as those in meat and cheese, can contribute to disease. Scientists have been developing imaging methods and other technologies to investigate on a molecular level how cells are helped or harmed by certain types of lipids.
After exposing human cells in the laboratory to a saturated fatty acid known as palmitate, the team discovered that the ER membrane was not entirely flexible and fluid. A fluid, flexible membrane allows for the ER to do its work, such as the easy transport of substances in and out of the ER. Instead, the ER membrane now had stiff, solid-like patches.
Next, the team showed that a common unsaturated fatty acid known as oleate did not form stiff portions after being incorporated into the membrane. When both oleate and palmitate were added to living cells, fewer stiff portions were observed than with palmitate alone. A polyunsaturated fatty acid also had the same beneficial effect as oleate. These findings may reveal one way that consuming a high level of saturated fat contributes to cell damage—and how unsaturated fat counteracts the damage.