Lipids are a diverse group of organic compounds that are insoluble in water but soluble in nonpolar solvents like alcohol and ether.
They play essential roles in the body, serving as a source of energy, a structural component of cell membranes, and a precursor for several important molecules.
There are several types of lipids, including:
Fats, also known as triglycerides, consist of a glycerol molecule bonded to three fatty acid molecules.
They are the most common form of lipids in the body and provide a concentrated source of energy.
Some lipids serve as bioactive mediators regulating various biological effects after binding to specific receptors.
Dysregulation of lipid mediators’ endogenous levels has been linked to inflammation, atherosclerosis, and various other diseases.
Phospholipids are integral components of cell membranes.
They consist of a glycerol molecule, two fatty acid molecules, and a phosphate group.
The phosphate group provides a polar head region, while the fatty acids form nonpolar tails.:
Steroids are lipids that have a characteristic structure consisting of four fused rings.
Steroids play roles in the body, such as regulating metabolism, acting as hormones, and forming the structure of cell membranes.
Waxes are lipid substances that are typically solid at room temperature.
Waxes have a variety of functions, including providing a protective coating on surfaces like the skin or plant leaves.
Lipids are necessary for the absorption and transportation of fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K.
They also provide insulation and cushioning to protect organs, contribute to hormone production, and act as signaling molecules in various biochemical pathways.
It’s important to note that while lipids are essential for the body, an excessive intake of certain types, such as trans fats and saturated fats, can be detrimental to health.
A balanced diet that includes a mix of healthy fats, such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, is recommended for overall well-being.
Lipids principal function is as an energy source.
Lipids are essential as components of cell membranes and as precursors of signaling molecules.
Some lipids serve as bioactive mediators regulating various biological effects after binding to specific receptors.
Dysregulation of lipid mediators’ endogenous levels has been linked to inflammation, atherosclerosis, and various other diseases.
Fasting lipid profile should be measured at least annually in most adults.
Most lipid levels differ minimally when measurements are performed non-fasting or fasting, with clinically insignificant changes: negligible changes for high density lipoprotein cholesterol, slight changes up to 8 mg/dL for total cholesterol, LDL, cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol, and modest changes up to 25 mg/dL for triglycerides.
For cardiovascular risk associations, prospective studies have consistently found that non fasting lipids suffice for general screening of cardiovascular risk.
In a study of 200,000 peoples lipid profiles studying how the time since last meal affected levels found: HDL and total cholesterol values varied less than 2% with different durations of fasting, triglycerides values varied by 20%, and LDL, had a variation of about 10% (Sidhu D, Naugler C).
Administration of lipids associated with increased infectious complications, hyperlipidemia, hypoxemia and a higher postoperative mortality rate.
Lipid disorders in about 20% of children between 12and 19 years of age.