Excess dietary fat is associated with which outcomes?

• A. No effect
• B. Weight gain and chronic diseases
• C. Improved digestion
• D. Weight loss

Answer: (B)

Excess fat pushes total energy intake above what the body needs because fat is highly energy-dense—about 9 kcal per gram. When energy intake consistently exceeds expenditure, the surplus is stored as body fat, leading to weight gain over time. Beyond weight, higher intake of certain fats—especially saturated and trans fats—can worsen blood lipid profiles, promote inflammation, and reduce insulin sensitivity, all of which raise the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. While fats are essential in moderation, the pattern of excess intake links to both weight gain and longer-term disease risk, rather than no effect or weight loss.