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Triglycerides form a major portion of the fat in our body, hence their functions are vital to the body.
1) Triglycerides provide energy to the body. Proteins and carbohydrates are good sources of energy but triglycerides provide at least twice the amount that these types of food have. Upon ingestion, fats are broken down in the body and some of it are utilized for energy, but those that are not are converted into triglycerides which would then be stored in the body for later use when needed by the body.
2) Triglycerides are a form of insulation for the body. Accumulated layers of adipose tissue located under the skin may provide warmth or insulation when needed by the body against higher or extreme temperatures.
3) Nutrition may also be required and acquired when the body uses triglycerides or fats. There are various fat-soluble vitamins namely Vitamins A, D, E and K, which can only be soluble or be metabolized by the body when triglycerides are present.
4) Triglycerides are an important component of the cell membrane. The cell membrane is composed of the phospholipid bilayer which is formed by both triglycerides and phospholipids. The phospholipid bilayer has hydrophobic and hydrophilic portions, which clump together to form a barrier. Triglycerides heavily contribute to the structural integrity of the cell membrane, which acts as a form of protection from the external environment.
5) Triglycerides are also sources of other lipids that are utilized by the body, such as for example, cholesterol. Cholesterol also has its own vital functions to the body.
6) Besides being a form of insulation, the accumulation of adipose tissue formed by triglycerides, can also protect the internal organs of the body. The layers of adipose tissue acts as barriers for sudden trauma or injury.