Triglycerides are carried in the blood as lipoprotein complexes (see article on "Other lipids" for more details). Once they reach their target organ, triglycerides are split by enzymes to release the three fatty acids inside the tissues, where they are used as a source of energy. All tissues are able to use fats for energy, heart muscle in particular.

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These “energy packages” are stored in special adipose tissue – normally visible as fat on the body. The amount of stored fat in these depots varies widely: in non-obese males, it can make up 15% of body weight and in non-obese females, 21%.

There is another type of body fat known as “brown fat”, which is present more in infancy than in adulthood. This is found on the back, at the nape of the neck and around the major blood vessels. The function of this brown fat is thought to be mainly concerned with insulation, heat production and for adapting to cold climates.

Reviewed by Dr A.G. Hall (B.Soc.Sc.(SW), MB,Ch.B)
Last updated: 2008/05/19
 

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