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Lipids

Lipids are molecules that are considered fat-soluble or lipophilic. They help in the construction of cells and cell wall structures.

This group of molecules is diverse with many different functions and purposes. Other functions include helping in cell communication and energy storage.

Lipids may include natural oils, waxes, and steroids among others.

The Different Types of Lipids:

–  Fats
–  Steroids
–  Cholesterol
–  Vitamins
–  Phospholipids
–  Monoglycerides
–  others

They can be divided into several categories that help distinguish chemistry properties.

1.)  Fatty acyls
2.)  Glycerolipids
3.)  Glycerophospholipids
4.)  Sterol lipids
5.)  Prenol lipids
6.) Sphingolipids
7.)  Saccharolipids
8.) Polyketides

Membranes

–  The structure of membranes both in cell walls and organelles have a large number of lipids
–  Membranes also contain cholesterol, sterols, and lipids
–  Several types of membranes including a sheet, and circular components
–  Liposome and Micellesare forms of a lipid bi-layers

Signaling

–  Referred to as “lipid signaling”
–  Important components in signaling molecules.
–  Such signaling can lead to the passing of information from cell to cell, regulation of enzymes, elements, and/or molecules, cell growth, and a list of others.

Nutritional Value

–  Many are essential for life
–  Abnormally elevated levels of lipids can be concerning
–  Elevated cholesterol
–  Can risk heart disease

Dietary Consumption

–  Omega-6 and Omega-3 are essential to be obtained by diet
–  Fish
–  Flax
–  Soy
–  Canola
–  Walnuts

Complications

–  Heart Disease
–  Atherosclerosis
–  Diabetes
–  Obesity