Lipids Health Article

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are another form of fat that comes from foods and is carried through the bloodstream to the tissues. High levels of triglycerides in the blood can mean that there is too much fat in the diet. Hypertriglyceridemia (high levels of triglycerides) is associated with coronary heart disease, especially since elevated triglycerides levels are usually associated with unhealthy low levels of HDL, which is necessary for good health.

High triglyceride levels (more than 150 mg/dL) can be caused by excessive intake of alcohol or high-calorie foods. Other risk factors include a family history of high triglycerides, obesity, hypertension (high blood pressure), and diabetes. Treatment generally includes controlling other disorders such as diabetes and high blood pressure, proper diet and regular exercise, and fibric acid derivatives such as gemfibrozil, clofibrate, or fenofibrate.

Other lipids

Lipoprotein(a) is a cholesterol-carrying molecule similar in structure to LDL and is believed to carry a protein that interferes with the body's ability to dissolve blood clots. Elevated levels may contribute to heart attacks. Apolipoprotein A-1 is a molecule associated with healthy hearts and may lower the risk of heart disease due to high HDL. Apolipoprotein B is associated with high LDL and may be more effective in predicting heart disease in women. Remnant lipoproteins are byproducts of chylomicrons, lipid particles common in the blood during fat digestion and assimilation, and/or very low density lipoproteins. Initial research suggest they may be a risk factor for CHD.

Function

Lipids manufactured by cells in the body form part of the protoplasmic structure of cells. Lipids act as a reserve source of energy. When broken down to be used as energy, lipids are converted to an energy-rich compound called adenosine triphosphate by a process known as fatty acid oxidation or beta oxidation.

Role in human health

Lipids are important to the human body since they helps produce hormones, and builds cell membranes and other needed tissue. Lipids, both lipoproteins and triglycerides, are made and stored in the body and are used as energy sources. Lipids also play a major role in cardiovascular health.