There are good fats and bad fats as we know.They are very much needed to help absorb the vitamins A, D, E, and K, the so-called fat-soluble vitamins. Fat also fills your fat cells and insulates your body to help keep you warm. The fats your body gets from your food give your body essential fatty acids called linoleic and linolenic acid.

The human brain is composed of nearly 60% fat, with fatty acids that are critical in facilitating brain performance. Omega 3s (EPA and DHA) in particular are necessary for proper brain development as we know it today, and there are very few vegan sources that are high in this critical component. They include seaweed, flax, chia, and hemp seeds. We need fat for digestion, transport, proper conversion, energy extraction as well as the nervous system.

But you don't have to eat meat to get your fats. Fats can be divided into three classes: saturated fats, trans fats and unsaturated fats. Saturated fats, usually found in animal products, including meat and milk, increase your body's levels of bad cholesterol. Trans fats, which form when vegetable oil hardens, are found in fried foods, processed foods, spreads and baked goods. Saturated fats and trans fats should be limited in a healthy diet. Unsaturated fats, on the other hand, found in nuts, olive oil, canola oil and vegetable oil, are considered "good fats."

Here is a link I recommend for vegetarians and vegans looking to supplement their diet with good fats!

http://www.veganhealth.org/articles/fatstable