When you consume more food than you require the mitochondria in the liver are involved in forming triglycerides from the excess. Why is storage of triglycerides important?

The storage of triglycerides is important because it allows us to store energy in a concentrated form. Triglycerides are a type of fat molecule composed of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol backbone. They are the main constituents of body fat and serve as the body's primary energy reserve.

When we consume more food than our body needs for immediate energy requirements, the excess calories are converted into triglycerides through a process called lipogenesis. The mitochondria in the liver play a crucial role in this process, as they generate the necessary energy and enzymes for the conversion.

Once formed, triglycerides are transported to adipose tissue (fat cells) for storage. They are stored in specialized structures called adipocytes, where they can be broken down and released as fatty acids when the body requires additional energy.

The storage of triglycerides provides several benefits:

1. Energy reserve: Triglycerides serve as a long-term energy source. They contain more than twice the amount of energy per gram compared to carbohydrates or protein. This stored energy can be accessed and utilized when there is a shortage of immediate energy supply, such as during fasting, intense exercise, or times of increased energy demand.

2. Insulation and protection: Triglycerides stored in adipose tissue help to insulate and protect vital organs, provide cushioning, and maintain body temperature.

3. Hormone regulation: Adipose tissue, where the triglycerides are stored, plays an important role in hormone regulation. It produces hormones such as leptin, adiponectin, and resistin, which influence appetite, metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and various other physiological processes.

Overall, the storage of triglycerides provides an efficient and compact way for our bodies to store excess energy, ensuring a continuous supply of fuel even during periods of high energy demand or limited food intake.