<P> Although the term `` lipid '' is sometimes used as a synonym for fats , fats are a subgroup of lipids called triglycerides . Lipids also encompass molecules such as fatty acids and their derivatives ( including tri - , di - , monoglycerides , and phospholipids ) , as well as other sterol - containing metabolites such as cholesterol . Although humans and other mammals use various biosynthetic pathways both to break down and to synthesize lipids , some essential lipids ca n't be made this way and must be obtained from the diet . </P>
<P> Although the term `` lipid '' is sometimes used as a synonym for fats , fats are a subgroup of lipids called triglycerides . Lipids also encompass molecules such as fatty acids and their derivatives ( including tri - , di - , monoglycerides , and phospholipids ) , as well as other sterol - containing metabolites such as cholesterol . Although humans and other mammals use various biosynthetic pathways both to break down and to synthesize lipids , some essential lipids ca n't be made this way and must be obtained from the diet . </P>
cholesterol is an example of what type of lipid
cholesterol is an example of what type of lipid
sterol - containing metabolites
sterol - containing metabolites