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Fuel Partitioning Biology

Meaning

Fuel Partitioning Biology describes the complex, hormonally regulated process by which the body determines how ingested energy substrates—carbohydrates, fats, and proteins—are distributed, stored, or utilized for immediate energy expenditure in different tissues. This biological process is a central determinant of body composition, influencing whether calories are preferentially stored as adipose tissue or directed towards muscle and lean mass synthesis. Hormones such as insulin, cortisol, thyroid hormone, and growth hormone are key orchestrators of this metabolic decision-making process. Dysregulation in fuel partitioning is a hallmark of metabolic syndrome and chronic weight gain.