Fat cell
Fat cell: A cell containing fat. Also called an adipocyte.
A fat cell, or adipocyte, is a connective tissue cell that has differentiated and become specialized in the synthesis (manufacture) and storage of fat.
The fat cell (adipocyte) is important to the body in maintaining proper energy balance, storing calories in the form of lipids, mobilizing energy sources in response to hormonal stimulation, and commanding changes by signal secretions.
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- Fat
Fat:1: Along with proteins and carbohydrates, one of the three nutrients used as energy sources by the body. The energy produced by fats is 9 calories per gram. Proteins and carbohydrates each provide 4 calories per gram. 2: Total fat; the sum of saturated, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Intake of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can […]
- Fat embolism
Fat embolism: A process by which fat tissue passes into the bloodstream and lodges within a blood vessel. In general, an embolus is something that travels through the bloodstream, lodges in a blood vessel, and blocks it. A fat embolus is a fat particle or droplet that travels through the circulation and eventually blocks a […]
- Fat requirements, infant
Fat requirements, infant: Fat in human milk provides 30%-35% of the total daily caloric needs for a growing infant. Manufacturers of infant formulas utilize many different vegetable oils for fat including corn, soy, safflower, and coconut oils. Some formulas contain “predigested” fats known as medium chain triglycerides (MCT). These are analogous to the “predigested proteins.” […]
- Fat, saturated
Fat, saturated: A fat that is solid at room temperature and comes chiefly from animal food products. Some examples are butter, lard, meat fat, solid shortening, palm oil, and coconut oil. These fats tend to raise the level of cholesterol in the blood.
- Fat, trans
Fat, trans: An unhealthy substance, also known as trans fatty acid, made through the chemical process of hydrogenation of oils. Hydrogenation solidifies liquid oils and increases the shelf life and the flavor stability of oils and foods that contain them. Trans fat is found in vegetable shortenings and in some margarines, crackers, cookies, snack foods […]