Metabolic Fate of Fats
• Storage – one of the metabolic uses of fat, given its high energy density, is as a mode of energy storage, as adipose tissue. This can be visible in the form of external fat, located on the abdomen (common in men) or hips, bottom and thighs (more common in women).
Excess stored fat can affect health in many ways, by increasing amounts of circulating fatty acids that in turn may increase risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer, decreasing mobility and therefore affecting fitness and affecting self esteem.
Fat stored in the abdominal region is thought to be the worst in terms of the effects on health. Fat can also be internal, located around organs such as the liver or heart. This type of fat is a significant health risk.
• Cellular structure – the membrane of every cell and many sub-cellular compartments in the body is composed of a type of fat known as phospholipids. These molecules form a malleable layer that allows the passive or active transfer of molecules from outside the cell to the inside and vice versa. They also form a water resistant barrier between the cell and its external environment.
• Hormones - such as the steroid hormones testosterone and oestrogen are made from fats known as sterols.
Further Articles
Below are related articles that may be of interest to you. To view one simply click the link below and the article will be displayed.
