About Lipids

The body is a complex mystery, and in the world of biochemistry lipids are one of the most mysterious. Lipids are fats, and we all know that having too much fat in the body can lead to illness. But did you know lipids carry highly advanced functions, such as transmitting messages to the brain? They also help protect the surface of plants and assist in the immune system of mammals.

Defined

• Lipids are fatty acids and compounds derived from or related to fatty acids. They cannot be dissolved in water and are oily to the touch. Human blood contains lipids that help carry out the body's essential functions. The two families of lipids in the body's blood are cholesterol and triglycerides. Cholesterol is further divided into two categories, good and bad. The former helps clear the blood vessels, while the latter blocks them. Triglycerides are esters, created when acid and alcohol combine to yield water. They store energy for the body, but are bad for the body in excess.

Function

• Lipids carry a wide variety of functions for the body. One considered only necessary for metabolism and membrane construction, lipids are actually a large, complex classification of components with a large variety of functions. In fact, we are still learning about what these lipids can do. They help carry signals to the brain and regulate hormones. Other types of lipids provide protection, help structure molecular components or assist in the immune system.

Types

• While fatty acids are the main type of lipids, there are other varieties. These include waxes, phospholipids and sphingolipids, although the list long and varies among scientists as we are still learning about the complexities of lipids. Fatty acids aid in metabolism and neurotransmission. Waxes form a thin layer over plants, providing a barrier to the outside world. Phospholipids provide the frame for enzyme construction. And sphingolipids serve as mediators for many cellular functions.

Importance

• Lipids are important to human because lipid levels in the blood must be controlled. If lipid levels go out of control, it can lead to coronary heart disease, stroke, poor circulation that can lead to amputation, among other complications. The only real way to know your lipid levels is to ask a doctor for a test, especially if you're middle aged, smoke, or have a family history of high blood pressure or high blood sugar.

Lowering Lipids

• If you are at high risk of having too many lipids in the body, start by eliminating hydrogenated fats from the diet, and reduce saturated fats. Load up on vegetables and high-fiber foods and limit meat intake to 6 ounces daily. Use canola, olive and peanut oils when cooking and exercise regularly. Drink in moderation, and quit smoking immediately. If these methods do not work, ask your doctor about medication that lowers lipids.