Dr Lalitha Badul

Lipids are fats or oils derived mainly from the foods we eat, where it is stored in the fat layer. They are then converted into fatty acids that are essential for the healthy functioning of the body and all its metabolic processes.

The importance of lipids
Besides storing energy, lipids assist cell growth. Lipids have three main functions in re¬gard to cell growth.

Firstly, lipids assist in the development of the cell membrane.
Secondly, they form components of hormones and vitamins.
Thirdly, together with proteins and carbohydrates, they form most cells in the body.

Lipids are essential for the breakdown and absorption of food and vital nutrients. Lipids also transport vitamins in the blood stream, which are used by the body cells to maintain vision and support the healthy functions of the skin, bones and body tissue.

Lipids allow waste products and toxins to exit.

Next week we look at the ‘Types of lipids found in the skin’.