Contents
When we looked at the topic of fats, we found out that lipids are the energy component of our body. Now we are going to talk about phospholipids, which also belong to fats. However, instead of a single addition of a fatty acid to a polyatomic alcohol, phosphorus is also present in the chemical formula of phospholipids.
Phospholipids were first isolated in December 1939. Soybeans were their source. The main activity of phospholipids in the body is associated with the restoration of damaged cellular structures, as a result of which the general destruction of cells is prevented.
Currently widely advertised some drugs for liver restoration have their therapeutic effect precisely due to the presence of free phospholipids in their composition. By the way, lycetin also belongs to this group of lipids.
Foods with the highest phospholipid content:
General characteristics of phospholipids
Phospholipids are compounds consisting of fatty acids of polyhydric alcohols and phosphoric acid. Depending on which polyhydric alcohol is the basis of the phospholipid, a distinction is made between glycerophospholipids, phosphosphingolipids and phosphoinositides… The basis for glycerophospholipids is glycerol, for phosphosphingolipids – sphingosine, and for phosphoinositides – inositol.
Phospholipids belong to the group of essential substances that are irreplaceable for humans. They are not produced in the body and, therefore, must be ingested with food. One of the most important functions of all phospholipids is participation in the construction of cell membranes. At the same time, proteins, polysaccharides and other compounds give them the necessary rigidity. Phospholipids are found in tissues of the heart, brain, nerve cells and liver. In the body, they are synthesized in the liver and kidneys.
Daily requirement for phospholipids
The body’s need for phospholipids, subject to a balanced diet, ranges from 5 to 10 grams per day. At the same time, it is desirable to use phospholipids, in combination with carbohydrates. In this combination, they are better absorbed.
The need for phospholipids increases:
- with a weakening of memory;
- Alzheimer’s disease;
- in diseases associated with a violation of the cell membranes;
- with toxic damage to the liver;
- with hepatitis A, B and C.
The need for phospholipids decreases:
- with high blood pressure;
- with atherosclerotic vascular changes;
- in diseases associated with hypercholemia;
- with diseases of the pancreas.
Phospholipid assimilation
Phospholipids are best absorbed together with complex carbohydrates (cereals, bran bread, vegetables, etc.). In addition, the method of cooking has an important effect on the complete assimilation of phospholipids. Food should not be exposed to prolonged heating, otherwise the phospholipids present in it undergo destruction and can no longer have a positive effect on the body.
Useful properties of phospholipids and their effect on the body
As mentioned earlier, phospholipids are responsible for maintaining the integrity of the cell walls. In addition, they stimulate the normal passage of signals along nerve fibers to the brain and back. Also, phospholipids can protect liver cells from the harmful effects of chemical compounds.
In addition to hepatoprotective effects, one of the phospholipids, phosphatidylcholine, improves blood supply to muscle tissue, replenishes muscles with energy, and also increases muscle tone and performance.
Phospholipids are especially important in the diet of the elderly. This is due to the fact that they have lipotropic and anti-atherosclerotic effects.
Interaction with other elements
Vitamins of groups A, B, D, E, K, F are absorbed in the body only when they are harmoniously combined with fats.
An excess of carbohydrates in the body complicates the breakdown of unsaturated fats.
Signs of a lack of phospholipids in the body:
- memory impairment;
- depressed mood;
- cracks in the mucous membranes;
- weak immunity;
- arthrosis and arthritis;
- violation of the gastrointestinal tract;
- dry skin, hair, brittle nails.
Signs of excess phospholipids in the body
- small bowel problems;
- thickening of the blood;
- overexcitation of the nervous system.
Phospholipids for beauty and health
Since phospholipids have a protective effect on all cells in our body, the use of phospholipids can be attributed to the first aid kit. After all, if this or that cell of our body is damaged, then the body itself will not be able to perform the functions assigned to it. And, therefore, one can only dream of a good mood and a beautiful appearance. Therefore, eat foods containing phospholipids and be healthy!