The Functions Of Fats In The Body
Question 1. Functions of lipids/fats.
Answer.
Functions Of Lipids/Fat.
- Lipids are constituents of the membrane structure
- Lipids regulate membrane permeability
- Lipids are a source of fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, and K)
- Lipids take part in the regulation of cell metabolism
- Lipids are an important source of energy (9.5 C/gm)
Importance of Fats in Energy and Nutrient Absorption
- Lipids can be stored in the body in unlimited amounts
- Lipids exert an insulating effect in the body
- Lipids around internal organs, like kidney, may provide padding and protect the organ
- Lipids are essential forthe proper functioning of the nervous system
- Essential fatty acids (PUFAs) are required to be taken in the diet for normal health and growth.
The Functions of Fats in the Body: Energy Storage and Protection
Question 2. Digestion of lipids/fats.
Answer.
Digestion In The Mouth
- The enzyme lingual lipase is secreted from the dorsal surface of the tongue (Ebner’s gland).
- It acts at a pH of 4 to 4.5.
- It breaks down TG to fatty acid and glycerol
Functions of Fats: Insulation, Hormone Production, and Protection
Digestion In The Stomach
- The enzyme gastric lipase acts at a pH of 7 to 8.
- It requires calcium ion for its activity.
- Activity of gastric lipase is seen when the intestinal contents are regurgitated into the stomach.
- Fats delay the rate of emptying of the stomach and thus have high satiety value.
The Functions of Fats in the Body: Energy Storage and Protection
Digestion In The Small Instestine
- Pancreatic juice enters the small intestine through the pancreatic duct and bile enters the small intestine through the bile duct.
- Secretion of pancreatic juice is stimulated by the hormones secretin and Cholecystokinin–Pancreozymin (CCK-PZ)
- Bile salts help in emulsification of fats (breakdown of fats into smaller units).
- Pancreatic lipase acts at a pH of 6 and breaks down triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol.
- The enzyme cholesterol esterase breaks down cholesterol esters, and phospholipase breaks down phospholipids.
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