Skip to main content

Free Fatty Acids

Meaning

Free Fatty Acids, or non-esterified fatty acids, represent circulating lipids liberated from adipose tissue or dietary intake, available for immediate cellular energy substrate use. These molecules are highly active signaling agents within metabolic pathways, directly influencing insulin sensitivity. Elevated levels often reflect a state of increased lipolysis, which can be driven by stress hormones or metabolic demand. Monitoring FFA concentration provides insight into substrate utilization dynamics.