Subcutaneous fat is the layer of fat located directly beneath the skin. It is different from visceral fat, which is found around the organs. Subcutaneous fat can be found in various parts of the body, such as the arms, thighs, and abdomen. This type of fat serves as an important energy reserve for the body, helping to store excess calories when needed.
Maintaining a healthy level of subcutaneous fat is important for overall health. While excessive fat can lead to health issues, a moderate amount of subcutaneous fat is essential for normal body function. It serves as insulation, helping to regulate body temperature, and it provides cushioning to protect muscles and bones from injury.
In the body, subcutaneous fat plays several basic functions. It acts as an energy source, meaning that when the body requires more energy than it consumes, it can draw on this stored fat. Additionally, subcutaneous fat helps to produce hormones that regulate metabolism and hunger, which are crucial for maintaining a balanced energy intake.
Overall, subcutaneous fat is a natural and necessary component of the body’s fat distribution. While it is important to monitor overall body fat levels, having some subcutaneous fat is a normal part of being healthy.