Lipids are fatty compounds that perform a range of essential functions in the body. Phospholipids, steroids, and triglycerides are examples of lipids.
Although lipids play an essential role in the body, high blood-lipid levels can cause serious health complications, such as heart attack and stroke.
This article describes what lipids are, including their functions and individual anatomies. It lists some lipid-related health conditions and provides information on testing lipid levels and treating lipid conditions. Finally, it offers some lifestyle tips for lowering and maintaining recommended lipid levels.
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Lipids are fatty compounds that play an essential role in the human body. As components of cell structures, they are present in all parts of the body.
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Lipids can build up around many organs and structures of the body. People often refer to these lipid stores as “fat.”
A different
- phospholipids
- sterols
- triglycerides (fats and oils)
- waxes
Lipoproteins
Lipids may also combine with other biochemicals to form more complex substances.
Since lipids do not dissolve in water, they need help traveling around watery fluids. Proteins called apolipoproteins combine with lipids to form water-soluble lipoproteins.
Typically, lipoproteins contain apolipoproteins alongside a complex of phospholipids, triglycerides, and cholesterol.
Lipoproteins include:
- low-density lipoproteins (LDL)
- high-density lipoproteins (HDL)
- very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL)
- intermediate-density lipoproteins (IDL)
- chylomicrons
According to the initial
Lipid type | Function |
Triglycerides | – storing energy – insulating cells – assisting the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins |
Phospholipids | – providing protection to cells – controlling which molecules enter and exit cells |
Steroids | – controlling the fluidity of cell membranes – existing as a component of steroid hormones, such as estrogen, testosterone, and cortisol |
Waxes | – protecting the skin inside the ear canal |
As the article explains, lipids are small molecules that are themselves made of even simpler components. Some key lipids and their associated anatomical structures are outlined below:
- Triglycerides: Fatty acids typically contain an even number of carbon atoms. Triglycerides help store energy, insulate cells, and help with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
- Phospholipids: Phospholipids are arranged in a bilayer manner. They provide protection for cells and are a barrier for certain molecules.
- Steroids: Steroids consist of four fused rings. Cholesterol is an important type of steroid.
- Wax: Waxes are combinations of fatty acids and long alcohol molecules.
There are many lipid-related health conditions. Of these, some of the most significant are those involving high lipid levels. Some examples are outlined below.
High LDL cholesterol
High blood levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol can
- heart attack
- stroke
- diabetes
- artery disease
- high blood pressure
The
However, people with a history of heart attack or stroke who are already taking cholesterol-lowering medications may need to aim for an LDL level of 70 mg/dL or lower.
High triglyceride blood levels
The
Phospholipids
Antiphospholipid syndrome is an autoimmune condition in which the immune system produces abnormal antibodies called antiphospholipid antibodies. These abnormal antibodies target proteins attached to phospholipids, and this process makes the blood more likely to clot.
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Because triglyceride levels vary throughout the day, and rise after meals, blood samples must be collected after a 12-hour fast. For the most accurate results, individuals are advised to not take any medications that can affect blood lipid levels and to avoid lipid testing during periods of illness or stress.
The treatment for high lipid levels and lipid-related conditions varies from case to case. Some potential treatment options are outlined below.
Treating high lipid levels
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- following a heart-healthy eating plan that is high in nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables and low in substances like sugar and full fat
- staying physically active, such as exercising
- if doctor-prescribed, losing weight to help maintain a moderate weight
- if a person smokes, quitting smoking
- if a person drinks alcoholic beverages, limiting alcohol consumption
If these adaptations are not sufficient, doctors may recommend medications to help lower lipid blood levels. According to the
- Statins: These medications help prevent cholesterol formation in the liver, thereby reducing the amount of cholesterol circulating in the blood. Examples include:
- atorvastatin (Lipitor)
- pravastatin (Pravachol)
- simvastatin (Zocor)
- Bile acid sequestrants: These medications cause the intestines to get rid of excess cholesterol. Examples include:
- colestipol (Colestid)
- colesevelam HCL (WelChol)
- cholestyramine (e.g., Questran, Prevalite, and Locholest).
- Fibrates: These medications can significantly lower triglyceride levels and can also lead to a mild decrease in LDL cholesterol. Examples include:
- gemfibrozil (Lopid)
- clofibrate (Atromid-S)
- fenofibrate (e.g., Lofibra, Tricor, and Triglide)
- Omega-3 fatty acid ethyl esters: These are fish oil derivatives that people can use in combination with adapting eating patterns to help lower high triglyceride levels. Examples include:
- Lovaza
- Vascepa
- Omtryg
Treating antiphospholipid syndrome
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- following a heart-healthy eating plan that is high in nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables and low in substances like sugar and full fat
- staying physically active, such as exercising
- if doctor-prescribed, losing weight to help maintain a moderate weight
- if a person smokes, quitting smoking
- if a person drinks alcoholic beverages, limiting alcohol consumption
It is important to note that not everyone will respond to lifestyle adaptations in the same way. For instance, some individuals may need to get more physical activity than others to maintain the same recommended lipid levels.
People can talk with their doctor for further advice on how to lower their lipid levels and maintain recommended levels.
Lipids are fatty compounds that perform various essential functions in the body, such as storing energy, insulating cells, and controlling which molecules enter and exit cell membranes.
Despite their many important functions, high lipid blood levels can cause serious health complications, such as heart attack and stroke. Doctors advise and support people with treatment plans to lower and maintain recommended blood lipid levels.
Some recommendations include following a heart-healthy eating plan, staying physically active, and if a person smokes, quitting smoking.
If lifestyle modifications do not succeed in lowering and maintaining recommended blood lipid levels, doctors may recommend medications, such as statins, bile acid sequestrants, and fibrates.
Anyone who is concerned about their blood lipid levels can talk with their doctor for further advice.