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Intr3pid
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hi everyone
I was wondering why do fats contrain the most energy per gram?
I was wondering why do fats contrain the most energy per gram?
he free glucose in the blood provides only a 40 kcal energy reserve -- only enough to maintain body functions for a few minutes.
Glycogen remaining stored in the liver and muscles after an overnight fast, amounts to about 600 kcal energy. Glycogen reserves can maintain body functions for about one day without new inputs of food. Protein (mostly in muscle) contains a substantial energy reserve of about 25,000 kcal.
Finally, lipid reserves containing 100,000 kcal of energy can maintain human body functions without food for 30-40 days with sufficient water. Lipids or fats represent about 24 pounds of the body weight in a 154 pound male. Lipids provide the sole source of energy in hibernating animals and migrating birds. Fortunately, lipids are more compact and contain more energy per gram than glycogen, otherwise body weight would increase approximately 110 pounds if glycogen were to replace fat as the energy
Fat is one of the three main macronutrients in our diets, alongside carbohydrates and protein. It is a concentrated source of energy, providing 9 calories per gram, which is more than double the amount provided by carbohydrates and protein. This means that fats contain more energy per gram compared to other macronutrients.
Fats consist of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms, which contain more energy than the simple sugar molecules found in carbohydrates. When broken down, these carbon-hydrogen bonds release a large amount of energy, making fats a highly efficient source of energy.
When we consume more calories than we burn, the excess energy is stored in the body as fat. When we need energy, the body breaks down these stored fats into fatty acids and glycerol, which can be used by the cells to create ATP, the body’s main source of energy.
No, not all fats are equal in terms of energy content. Saturated fats, found in animal products such as meat and dairy, contain more energy per gram compared to unsaturated fats, found in plant-based sources such as nuts and avocados. Trans fats, found in processed foods, also provide a high amount of energy per gram.
Yes, consuming too much fat can lead to weight gain. As mentioned earlier, fats provide a high amount of energy per gram, and if we consume more energy than we expend, the excess energy will be stored as fat in the body. It is important to consume fats in moderation and to choose healthier sources of fats, such as avocados, nuts, and fatty fish.