Body fat: Where does it go when you lose weight

Fats, to use the term in its broadest chemical sense, are composed of long chains of carbon and hydrogen atoms, with just an occasional oxygen atom here or there. In this fashion they resemble both carbohydrates (which contain more oxygen) and proteins (which contain, in addition, atoms of nitrogen). In contrast, coal and fuel oils which also give energy when burning are simple hydrocarbons, containing only hydrogen and carbon but no oxygen.

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And oxygen is needed for the "burning process," both in and out of the body. When it occurs the process is known as "oxidation", and the chemical reaction provides the heat and energy we need for all body functions. During this process the fats are broken down, their hydrogen and carbon atoms combining with the oxygen to form (in the very last stage) water (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Thus you breathe in oxygen but exhale carbon dioxide, and a great deal of water vapor too. In many ways the process is identical to burning coal, which produces flame in addition to the heat and energy. In the body the reaction is not quite as dramatic, and is handled by a wide assortment of enzymes and other chemicals. When the body requires more energy, to provide for muscle contractions during exercise for example, the oxidation process must be turned up.

Although the body generally uses its carbohydrates (sugars) first for this reaction, it must soon use the reserve energy resources contained in the fat tissue when those carbohydrates are used up. And when fat supplies are gone, the body starts to burn its proteins (contained in muscles) as the fuel for the needed energy. That explains the often written statement about balanced nutrition and regular exercise as the proper prescription for weight loss. If you keep the fire going, but limit the amount of coal you shovel on, your "coal pile" will soon disappear!

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