White fat vs. brown fat
Metabolic Factoids: What is the difference between White Fat and Brown Fat?
Do you think our fat (aka adipose) cells serve only to store fat and keep us warm?
Well, what adipose research has taught us is that our fat tissue is a highly active endocrine organ!
White Fat, aka, White Adipose Tissue (WAT)
Type of fat primarily found in human fat stores
Each fat cell varies in size but contains a single large fat droplet within.
When stimulated by insulin, sugar and fatty acids turn into triglycerides within the fat cell.
If energy levels (needed for organ function) drop, the triglycerides are broken down to release components that can then be used for organ function
It also releases hormones! leptin and adiponectin have multiple metabolic functions, including regulating food intake
Conclusion: WAT regulates feeding behavior, carbohydrate metabolism, and energy expenditure
Brown Fat, aka, Brown Adipose Tissue (BAT)
Smaller in size compared to WAT
Contains multiple small fat droplets and much more mitochondria (the powerhouses of cells, if you will)
Breaks down blood sugar and fat molecules to create heat
Helps maintain body temperature
Activated by cold exposure or ‘fight-or-flight’-like hormones
Why does this matter?
Well - now that we know that there are different types of fat and that our fat is a highly active endocrine organ, medicines can be developed to target them and to affect energy expenditure.
