Functions of Fats in the Body

Functions of Fats in the Body

Energy fuel, energy stores, emergency reserve, padding, insulation, cell membranes, raw materials

Energy fuel

Fats = 80-90% of all resting body's energy and much of the energy used to fuel muscular work

Energy stores

Fats are the body's chief form of stored energy

Insulation

Fats insulate against temperature extremes by forming a fat layer under the skin

Padding

Fats protect the internal organs from shock through fat pads inside the body cavity.

Emergency reserve

Fats serve as an emergency fuel supply in times of illness and diminished food intake

Raw Materials

Lipids are converted to other compounds, such as hormones, bile, and vitamin D, as needed.

Cell membranes

fats form the major material of cell membranes