Saturated fats? roles in the body include: [1]

? They constitute at least 50% of our cell membranes and give our cells integrity.
? They play a vital role in the health of our bones.
? They lower Lp(a), a substance in the blood that is said to indicate proneness to heart disease.
? They protect the liver from alcohol and other toxins like Tylenol (Acetaminophen).
? They enhance the immune system.
? They are needed for proper utilization of essential fatty acids.
? Stearic acid and palmitic acid, both saturated fats, are the preferred energy source of the heart. This is why the fat around the heart muscle is mainly saturated. The best sources for palmitic acid are beef, butter and palm oil.
? Short and medium chain saturated fatty acids have strong antimicrobial properties. They help protect us from harmful microorganisms. The best sources are tropical oils such as coconut oil and palm oil.
(Enig, Mary., and Sally Fallon. ?The Skinny on Fats,? westonaprice.org

http://www.westonaprice.org/knowyourfats/skinny.html#benefits)

Saturated fats have been nourishing societies around the world for thousands of years. If animal fats (saturated fats) are so dangerous, and vegetable oils (polyunsaturated fat) are so healthy, why are we so unhealthy as a nation? The scientific data of the past and present does not support the assertion that saturated fats cause heart disease. As a matter of fact, people who have had a heart attack haven?t eaten any more saturated fat than other people, and the degree of atherosclerosis at autopsy is unrelated to diet.Ravnskov, Uffe. ?The cholesterol Myths: Myth number 4?