A descriptive term, rather than chemical one, for fats. Broadly, it means true fats (like triglycerides), lipoids (like phospholipids) and sterols (like cholesterol).
A substance which is insoluble in water, but soluble in fat solvents such as alcohol and ether. The main lipid groups are the triglycerides, phospholipids, and glycolipids. They play an important role in nutrition, health (particularly in the functioning of the cell membranes, and the immune response), and disease (notably cardiovascular disease). There is a strong correlation between the concentration of CHOLESTEROL in the blood (transported as lipoproteins) and the risk of developing ATHEROMA and coronary heart disease (see HEART, DISEASES OF). Lipoproteins are classi?ed by their density and mobility, the chief groups being low-density (LDL) and high-density (HDL). High SERUM concentrations of LDL increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, while HDL is thought to protect the vessel wall by removing cholesterol, and has an inverse relationship to risk. The various serum lipid abnormalities have been classi?ed into ?ve groups, according to the cause and particular lipoprotein raised. Most important are type II (increased LDL, genetically determined) and type IV (increased VLDL, associated with obesity, diabetes, and excess alcohol). Various lipid-lowering drugs are available, but any drug treatment must be combined with a strict diet, reduction of blood pressure, and cessation of smoking.
n. one of a group of naturally occurring compounds that are soluble in solvents such as chloroform or alcohol, but insoluble in water. Lipids are important dietary constituents, not only because of their high energy value but also because certain vitamins and *essential fatty acids are associated with them. The group includes *fats, *steroids, *phospholipids, and *glycolipids.
These drugs reduce the amount of low-density LIPOPROTEINS, which transport CHOLESTEROL and triglycerides (see TRIGLYCERIDE) in the blood, or raise the concentration of high-density lipoproteins. The aim is to reduce the progression of ATHEROSCLEROSIS and therefore help prevent coronary heart disease (see HEART, DISEASES OF). These drugs should be combined with reducing other risk factors for raised lipid concentrations, such as a high-fat diet, smoking and obesity. Lipid-regulating drugs include STATINS, ?brates, anion-exchange resins, and NICOTINIC ACID, which may be used singly or in combination under careful medical supervision (see HYPERLIPIDAEMIA).... lipid-regulating drugs
A general term for fats and oils. Lipids include triglycerides (simple fats), phospholipids (important constituents of cell membranes and nerve tissue), and sterols, such as cholesterol.... lipids
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