Topic 3 Lipids
Functions:
- Stock energy of the body
- Constituents of cell membranes and nerve sheaths
- Precursors of hormones, bile acids, vitamin D
- Carriers of fat-soluble vitamins
Type:
- Triglycerides, main constituents of adipocytes.
- Phospholipids, constituents of cell membranes and nerve sheaths.
- Cholesterol, constituent of cell membranes, bile salts and hormones.
Source: Freepik
Lipids are made of fatty acids, categorized based on the length of the chain and number and position of any double links.
Some fatty acids are essential (need to be introduced with diet): linoleic acid (w6) and a-linolenic acid (w3)
Trans fatty acids: generated through a process of oil solidification, called hydrogenation (hard margarines, packaged products, french fries and fast food products).
| Saturated | Monounsaturated | Polyunsaturated |
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