Ch. 5: Lipids Flashcards
What are the main functions of lipids?
They provide energy, serve as structural components of cells, and regulate cellular processes
What are the three categories of lipids?
Triglycerides, phospholipids, and sterols
What is the difference between saturated fatty acids and unsaturated fatty acids?
Saturated fatty acids have straight carbon chains and are solid at room temp., while unsaturated ones have double bonds and are liquid at room temp.
What is a polyunsaturated fatty acid?
When a fatty acid has two or more double bonds between the carbons
What are the two essential polyunsaturated fatty acids for the body?
Linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid
What is a triglyceride?
A lipid that contains glycerol, which serves as a backbone for three fatty acids.
What is a phospholipid?
Same as a triglyceride, but at least one fatty acid is replaced with a compound containing phosphorus
What are sterols?
A kind of lipid that is not essential for the body. These are multi-ringed structures.
What are the major functions of cholesterol?
It serves as a vital part of cell membranes and is used to form hormones and bile acids.
What is the difference between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids?
The start of the first carbon-carbon double bond.
What foods tend to carry the most fat?
Foods from the protein group, as well as most oils
How do fats become rancid?
Through extended exposure to light, heat, and oxygen.
What do food manufacturers tend to do to reduce fat in foods?
Replace the fat with sugar, water, protein, or forms of carbohydrates.
What do fats tend to contribute as part of the food?
They add flavor and texture, as well as provide satiety after meals.
With the help of bile acids and lipase, triglycerides are broken down into ________, ________, and ___________ to be absorbed by the liver.
Fatty acids, glycerol, and monoglycerides.
Why can’t fats easily get transported through the blood?
Because it’s mostly water; fat and water doesn’t mix easily.
How do fats get transported to body tissues, unlike other nutrients?
Through lipoproteins
What are chylomicrons?
A type of lipoprotein that transports dietary fats
What are VLDLs and LDLs?
Types of lipoproteins that transport lipids
Why is it common to hear that you should limit saturated fat intake?
Because it increases LDL, which in excessive amounts, increases risk of cardiovascular disease.
What are lipoproteins typically made of?
Protein, cholesterol, and phospholipids
What are the functions of triglycerides in the body?
To store energy
According to the Dietary Guidelines, how much should you limit your saturated fat intake?
Less than 10% of total calories
How does a heart attack happen?
When the blood flow to the heart is interrupted
What are three dietary strategies to lower your risk for cardiovascular disease?
Limit saturated fats, avoid trans fats, and limit added sugars
What are three lifestyle changes to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease?
Incorporate exercise into your life if you don’t already, consume less saturated fats, and avoid smoking
