The major function of adipose fat tissue is energy storage. Adipose tissue, commonly known as body fat, primarily stores excess energy in the form of triglycerides. This stored energy can be released as needed to fuel the body's activities. Beyond energy storage, adipose tissue plays several other crucial roles.
Additional Functions of Adipose Tissue
Beyond its primary role in energy storage and release, adipose tissue performs several other important functions:
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Insulation: Adipose tissue acts as an insulator, protecting the body from both cold and heat. This insulation helps maintain a stable internal body temperature.
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Cushioning: Fat deposits cushion and protect internal organs, providing a layer of protection against impact and injury. For example, the fat around kidneys helps protect these vital organs.
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Hormone Production: Adipose tissue is an endocrine organ, meaning it produces and releases hormones that influence various bodily functions. These hormones, such as leptin and adiponectin, play crucial roles in metabolism, appetite regulation, and insulin sensitivity. https://www.osmosis.org/answers/adipose-tissue https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35216423/ https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-019-0230-6
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Metabolic Regulation: Adipose tissue plays a significant role in regulating whole-body energy and glucose homeostasis. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7928204/
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Supporting Organ Function: Adipose tissue is intricately involved in maintaining the health and proper functioning of various organs. For instance, it contributes to glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41574-019-0230-6
In healthy individuals, adipose tissue constitutes approximately 20-25% of total body weight. https://www.kenhub.com/en/library/anatomy/adipose-tissue The amount and distribution of adipose tissue vary depending on factors such as age, sex, and overall health.
