When we look at the accumulated fat in our bodies, such as the bulging belly or sagging love handles, it’s common to feel the urge to get rid of it. Those stressed due to their weight can see fat as the ultimate enemy.
However, it’s crucial not to forget that fat is essential for our bodies. But what exactly is the role of fat in our bodies?
Firstly, fat plays a crucial role in the absorption of vitamins. Among the essential vitamins we need for our well-being, fat-soluble vitamins can only dissolve in fat. Without fat, these vitamins would go unabsorbed, leading to significant health issues.
Fat also contributes to shaping our bodies. Our bodies comprise numerous cells, each separated by a cell membrane. This membrane acts as a barrier between the inside and outside of the cell, facilitating the passage of substances in and out. If these membranes were absent, our cells would merge into one, and our bodies would resemble a gooey, shapeless mass. These vital cell membranes comprise lipids, neutral fats, and cholesterol.
Additionally, fat protects our internal organs from the impact they might encounter. The abdominal area primarily contains our vital organs. To safeguard these crucial organs, the abdominal region has more fat than other parts, both superficial and visceral fat. Even minor external shocks could directly damage our organs without this protective fat layer.
Fat also constitutes the primary component of the protective sheath around our nerves. Myelin, a substance rich in lipids, wraps around nerve fibers and is akin to the insulation of electrical wires. Myelin prevents the leakage of nerve signals and significantly amplifies the speed of signal transmission. Without fat, myelin wouldn’t form, and nerve signals would fail to transmit correctly.
Furthermore, fat is an energy reserve for use in times of need and acts as an insulator to prevent body temperature from dropping in cold weather.
While excess fat can lead to various health problems, it’s important to remember that fat is an indispensable component of our bodies. Therefore, excessive removal of fat is not recommended.
By. Sin Soo Jung (soojungsin@inews24.com)
Most Commented