Chapter 6: Fats and Other Lipids Flashcards
What are the three major kinds of lipids?
- Triglycerides
- Phospholipids
- Sterols (Cholesterol)
These are the most common types of lipids found in the body.
True or False: Lipids are soluble in water.
False
Lipids are insoluble in water and are less dense than water.
Fill in the blank: Lipids include triglycerides, phospholipids, and _______.
Sterols (Cholesterol)
Sterols are another major category of lipids.
How many kcal per gram do lipids provide?
9 kcal per gram
This makes lipids a dense source of energy compared to carbohydrates and proteins.
What functions do lipids have in the body?
- Provide insulation
- Help transport fat-soluble vitamins
- Line membranes
These functions are vital for maintaining health and supporting bodily processes.
What are fatty acids composed of?
Chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms
They also have a carboxyl group (–COOH) at one end.
What are the three ways fatty acids can vary?
- Length
- Saturation
- Number of double bonds
These variations affect their properties and functions.
What does the saturation of fatty acids refer to?
The presence of double bonds between carbon atoms
Saturated fatty acids have no double bonds, while unsaturated fatty acids have one or more.
How many double bonds are found in saturated fatty acids?
0 double bonds
Saturated fatty acids are fully saturated with hydrogen atoms.
How many double bonds are found in monounsaturated fatty acids?
1 double bond
This structure affects their health benefits and physical state.
How many double bonds are found in polyunsaturated fatty acids?
2 or more double bonds
These fatty acids are essential for health and must be obtained from the diet.
Which type of fat is more likely to be solid at room temperature?
Saturated fats
Saturated fats have a higher melting point compared to unsaturated fats.
What is the carbon range for short-chain fatty acids?
2 to 4 carbons
Short-chain fatty acids are typically defined as having fewer than 6 carbon atoms.
Why are certain fatty acids classified as essential?
They cannot be synthesized by the body
Essential fatty acids must be obtained through diet.
Name two essential fatty acids.
- Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
- Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)
Arachidonic acid (AA) is also considered essential for infants.
What do infants require essential fatty acids for?
Growth and nervous system development
Essential fatty acids are crucial for proper development in infants.
What are common deficiency signs of essential fatty acids?
Scaly skin, hair loss, and poor wound healing
Deficiencies can lead to various health issues.
What has reduced the health concern regarding trans fatty acids?
Bans and regulations on their use
Many countries have implemented bans on trans fats in food products.
What is the carbon range for medium -chain fatty acids?
6 to 12 carbons
What is the carbon range for long-chain fatty acids?
14 to 24 carbons
What is the backbone structure of triglycerides made of?
Glycerol
Triglycerides are composed of one glycerol molecule and three fatty acids.
What is the most common type of lipid found in food and in the human body?
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the predominant form of stored fat in the body.
Fill in the blank: Saturated fats are typically ______ and unsaturated fats are typically ______ (or ______ ).
solid, unsaturated fats are typically liquid or (oils).
This distinction is based on the chemical structure of the fats.
True or False: Triglycerides in fats and oils are typically the same type.
False
Saturated fat bends and has a different molecular structure. Unsaturated has more double bonds for carbon.
List three examples of foods high in saturated fats.
- High fat dairy (butter, cheese, cream cheese)
- Fatty meats (beef, sausage, bacon)
- Tropical oils (palm and coconut oil)
Saturated fats are commonly found in these food sources.
List three examples of foods high in unsaturated fats.
- Oils (olive, canola, peanut)
- Nuts and seeds (walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds)
- Fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel)
Unsaturated fats are often considered healthier options.
What do phospholipids contain that gives them a hydrophilic head?
Phosphate group
The phosphate group is part of the structure that allows phospholipids to interact with water.
What is the tail structure of phospholipids made of?
Fatty acids
The fatty acid tails are hydrophobic, which helps in forming cellular membranes.