Lipids Flashcards
The Functions of Fats in Foods (7)
- Nutrient (food fats provide essential fatty acids and other raw materials)
- Energy (food fats provide a concentrated energy source)
- Transport (fats carry fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K along with some phytochemicals and assist in their absorption)
- Sensory appeal (fats contribute to the taste and smell of food)
- Appetite (fats stimulate the appetite)
- Satiety (fats contribute to feelings of fullness)
- Texture (fats make fried foods crisp and other foods tender)
Functions of Fat in the body (6)
- Energy stores
- Muscle fuel
- Padding
- Insulation
- Cell membranes
- Raw materials
Functions of Fat in the body: Energy stores
fats are the body’s chief form of stored energy
Functions of Fat in the body: Muscle fuel
Fats provide much of the energy to fuel muscular work
Functions of Fat in the body: Padding
Fat pads inside the body cavity protect the internal organs from shock
Functions of Fat in the body: Insulation
Fats insulate against temperature extremes by forming a fat layer under the skin
Functions of Fat in the body: Cell membranes
Fats from the major material of cell membranes
Functions of Fat in the body: Raw materials
Fats are converted to other compounds, such as hormones, bile, and vitamin D, as needed
Lipids: Organic compound meaning it contains…
Carbon
Lipids: Predominantly
triglycerides
Triglycerides
Tri = 3 fatty acids + glyceride = glycerol backbone
Fatty Acids: 2 main features
- Chain length (number of carbons)
- Saturation (number of hydrogens)
Hydrogenation
Adding hydrogen atoms to unsaturated fats
3 Types of fatty acids
- Saturated
- Monounsaturated (one double bond)
- Polyunsaturated (multiple double bonds)
TransFats
- spreadable oil products (margarine)
- Shelf life
- partially hydrogenated oils
- Significant negative impact on heart health