Loose connective tissue includes areolar tissue, reticular tissue, and adipose tissue. It connects epithelial tissue to underlying tissues by collagenous and elastic fibers in a gelatinous ground substance. It holds organs in place, provides nutrition and waste removal to epithelium, and acts as a reservoir of water and salts for surrounding tissues. Swelling of loose connective tissue rich organs like the eyelids can indicate renal failure or nephrotic syndrome.