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What Are the Functions of Simple Lipids?

Simple lipids consist of oils, fats, waxes and related compounds. Every cell membrane contains lipids. They have many functions. In animals, lipids are used to store energy; they insulate against the cold and protect the organs against physical damage.

  1. Lipids as Foods

    • Simple lipids are digestible in the small intestine like food. Bile salts are used to assimilate them, while pancreatic lipase hormone hydrolyzes lipids into glycerol, fatty acids, diglycerides and soaps.

    Lipids in the Blood

    • Simple lipids found in the blood are absorbed by brain cells to produce neural tissue. Lipids in the blood are also utilized by liver cells which provide energy to fuel many cellular functions.

    Connective Tissue

    • Lipids stored in the cells are the key components of special kinds of connective tissue known as depot fat or adipose fat. Depot fat has a plethora of different biological functions such as providing structural support to aid in preventing injury to important organs like the liver, heart and kidneys.

    Energy Reserve

    • Lipids or fats reserves generally store 100,000 Kcal of energy which can supply the energy required to maintain full bodily functions for a continuous 40 days during starvation.

    Heat Insulator

    • Simple lipids act as a natural insulator of the body. They help to protect the body from heat loss as well as excessive temperature changes.

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