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Lipid Mobilization

Meaning

Lipid mobilization is the critical physiological process by which stored triglycerides within adipose tissue are broken down into free fatty acids and glycerol, which are then released into the bloodstream for use as metabolic fuel by other tissues. This process is essential for maintaining energy homeostasis during periods of fasting, prolonged exercise, or high metabolic demand. Hormonal regulation, particularly by catecholamines, growth hormone, and cortisol, plays a dominant role in governing the rate and extent of this release. Effective lipid mobilization is a hallmark of metabolic flexibility.