| Phospholipids | |||||
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Phospholipids are a type of lipid (fat) that contains one or more phosphate groups in the chemical structure.
Phospholipids have one end that is hydrophilic (water loving) and the other end that is hydrophobic (water fearing).
There are two types of phospholipids:
- Containing a glycerol backbone
- Containing sphigosine
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- Lecithin is the most common form of phospholipid
- A common phospholipid is phosphatidylcholine
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Why phospholipids are important
Cell membranes have a phospholipid bi-layer which means that the contents within the cell cannot spill out and none of the exterior can enter the cell (unless required).
The phospholipid bi-layer also allows cells to be flexible and not rigid, which is a beneficial property for cells.
Last reviewed: 30 September 2007 || Last updated: 14 March 2010
Related Articles
references
- McGuire M, Beerman KA, Nutritional Sciences: From Fundamentals to Food, 2007 Thomson Wadsworth USA
- Marieb EM, Hoehn K. Human Anatomy & Physiology. 7th edition, 2006. Benjamin Cummings Publishing
- Osiecki, Henry. The Physician's Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. 6th edition, 2001, BioConcepts Publishing
- Rolfes SR, Pinna K, Whitney E. Understanding Normal and Clinical Nutrition. 7th Edition, 2005. Brooks Cole Publishing
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NOTE: Mega doses of any type of vitamin, mineral, amino acid or herbal supplement cannot cure illnesses and in fact can be very dangerous and produce toxic side effects and interfere with medicine you are taking. Always ensure you consult your doctor before taking any type of complementary supplements.
Disclaimer: This guide is not intended to be used for diagnostic or prescriptive purposes. For any treatment or diagnosis of illness, please see your doctor.
