Tag: Fat structure

According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, fats contain more than double the energy density of carbohydrates, storing approximately 9 calories per gram compared to 4 calories per gram. The comparison of lipids and carbohydrates reveals fundamental differences in their chemical structure, function, and role as energy sources in the body.

According to the NCBI, complex lipids contain, in addition to fatty acids and glycerol, other components such as phosphate, nitrogenous bases, or carbohydrates. While simple fats like triglycerides primarily function as energy storage, complex fats serve critical structural and signaling roles within the body's cells. These intricate molecules are fundamental to cellular function and overall health.

According to research from multiple scientific sources, the key difference is that lipids are a broad and diverse group of biomolecules, while fat is a specific type of lipid. This means that while all fats are considered lipids, not all lipids are fats, as the broader lipid category includes other essential molecules like phospholipids and steroids.