Overview and Clinical Significance
Neutral fats, also known as triglycerides, are the primary form of stored fat in the body and a key component of plasma lipids. They serve as an energy source, playing a crucial role in metabolism, cardiovascular health, and lipid transport.
Clinical Significance
- Energy Storage & Metabolism: Neutral fats provide long-term energy reserves, mobilized during fasting or increased energy demand.
- Cardiovascular Health & Lipid Disorders: Elevated triglyceride levels are associated with atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.
- Lipoprotein Transport & Fat Utilization: Neutral fats are transported in lipoproteins, influencing cholesterol balance and lipid metabolism.
- Diabetes & Insulin Resistance: High triglyceride levels often correlate with insulin resistance, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
- Diagnostic & Therapeutic Applications: Plasma triglyceride testing helps assess metabolic health, cardiovascular risk, and lipid disorders.
Neutral fats are essential for energy balance, influencing metabolic function, cardiovascular health, and lipid homeostasis.