The Lipids: Triglycerides, Phospholipids, and Sterols

Flashcards covering key terminology related to lipids, their types, functions, and implications for health.

Triglycerides

A type of fat found in your blood that is composed of one glycerol and three fatty acids.

Fatty acids

Organic compounds consisting of a hydrocarbon chain and a carboxylic acid group; they are the building blocks of triglycerides.

Saturated fats

Fats that contain no double bonds between carbon atoms; they are usually solid at room temperature.

Unsaturated fats

Fats that contain one or more double bonds between carbon atoms; they are usually liquid at room temperature.

Phospholipids

A class of lipids that are a major component of all cell membranes; they consist of two fatty acids, a glycerol, and a phosphate group.

Sterols

A type of lipid that includes cholesterol and other sterols, which play roles in cell membrane structure and function.

Essential fatty acids

Fatty acids that the body cannot synthesize and must be obtained from the diet, such as linoleic acid and linolenic acid.

Omega-3 fatty acids

A group of polyunsaturated fats that are important for heart health, found in fish and certain plant oils.

Omega-6 fatty acids

A group of polyunsaturated fats that are essential for health, primarily found in vegetable oils.

Trans fats

Unsaturated fats that have been hydrogenated to become solid; they are associated with increased risk of heart disease.

Hydrogenation

A chemical process that adds hydrogen to unsaturated fats, converting them to more saturated fats, often resulting in trans fats.

Cholesterol

A waxy substance found in the blood that is utilized in the formation of cell membranes, hormones, and vitamin D.

Chylomicrons

Lipoprotein particles that transport dietary lipids from the intestines to other locations in the body.

Lipoproteins

Complexes of lipids and proteins that transport lipids in the bloodstream; includes HDL and LDL.

Eicosanoids

Biologically active lipids derived from fatty acids that have hormone-like effects on the body.

Lipid digestion

The process by which fats are broken down in the digestive tract into fatty acids, glycerol, and monoglycerides for absorption.