BREAKDOWN OF FATS IN THE HUMAN BODY

 

INTRODUCTION: Fats are some of the chemicals of life that are used by the body to generate energy other than carbohydrates and proteins. We have discussed much about carbohydrates in our previous presentations and the several steps involved in energy production. In our discussion here, we are going to look at some of the processes through which fats are broken down, into which they become the second most immediate source of energy for the body.

LIPOLYSIS: The term lipolysis comes from lipids, which is another name for fats. This is the process of breaking down triglycerides, which are the main form of stored fat in the body, into glycerol and free fatty acids. Lipolysis is stimulated by hormones such as epinephrine, norepinephrine, glucagon, and growth hormone, which bind to receptors on the surface of fat cells and activate an enzyme called hormone-sensitive lipase. Lipolysis can also be induced by exercise, fasting, or low-carbohydrate diets .

BETA-OXIDATION: This is the process of converting free fatty acids into acetyl-CoA, which is a molecule that can enter the Krebs cycle and produce energy. Beta-oxidation occurs in the mitochondria, which are the powerhouses of the cells. Beta-oxidation requires oxygen and coenzymes such as NAD+ and FAD, which are derived from vitamins B3 and B2. Beta oxidation can also produce ketone bodies, which are alternative fuel sources for the brain and other organs.

THERMOGENESIS: This is the process of generating heat from metabolic reactions, which can increase the energy expenditure and fat burning of the body.  Those are some of the few processes where fats can be utilized in the human body.  In our next discussion, we shall be talking about the dangers of having too much body fat.

RELATED;

1.  PROTEINS

2.  DIGESTION OF LIPIDS

3.  EPINEPHRINE AS A HOMONE AND AS A DRUG

4. GLUCAGON

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