Source: Lipids, Healthy Fats

Fats and oils are examples of lipids. Solid lipids are called fats while liquid lipids are called oils. The main function of fats is long-term energy storage. Fats also serve as insulation for the body and help protects organs. Nuts, butter, oils, fatty meat, and cheese are examples of foods that are rich in lipids.

Lipids are made of two smaller molecules called fatty acids and glycerol. The bonds that hold these molecules together must be broken in order for the body to use lipids for cellular functions. The breaking of the bond between these molecules is a chemical change.

The diagram below shows an example of a triglyceride or a lipid with three fatty acids.

How does the digestive system break down the glycerol and fatty acids into individual molecules?