Lipolysis

Lipolysis is the metabolic process by which triglycerides stored in adipose tissue are broken down into their constituent parts: one glycerol molecule and three free fatty acids. These components are then released into the bloodstream to be used as energy by various tissues, particularly the muscles. This process is primarily regulated by hormones; it is stimulated by 'energy-demanding' hormones like epinephrine and glucagon, and it is strongly inhibited by insulin.

For effective weight loss to occur, the rate of lipolysis must exceed the rate of lipogenesis (fat storage). Because insulin is a potent inhibitor of lipolysis, maintaining low and stable insulin levels through diet and fasting is essential for accessing stored body fat. Once fatty acids are released through lipolysis, they must then undergo beta-oxidation in the mitochondria to be fully converted into usable energy (ATP).