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Fat Oxidation

The metabolic process of breaking down stored body fat into energy, influenced by calorie balance, exercise intensity, and hormonal regulation.

Fat oxidation is the process by which your body breaks down stored fat and converts it into energy. This happens naturally when you are in a calorie deficit — consuming fewer calories than you burn. Exercise, especially moderate-intensity activity like brisk walking, can increase fat oxidation and help you lose body fat.

Fat oxidation refers to the mitochondrial beta-oxidation of fatty acids, where long-chain fatty acids are sequentially cleaved into acetyl-CoA units that enter the Krebs cycle for ATP production. The rate of fat oxidation is hormonally regulated by insulin (which suppresses lipolysis), catecholamines (which promote it via hormone-sensitive lipase), and substrate availability. Peak fat oxidation occurs at approximately 55–65% of VO₂max during exercise, declining at higher intensities as carbohydrate becomes the predominant fuel source.

Understanding fat oxidation helps you optimise exercise intensity and nutritional timing for maximum fat loss. At NuLifeCare Singapore, Dr. Joseph Wang can design a programme that aligns your activity level and diet to enhance your body's natural fat-burning capacity.

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Medical Disclaimer

This library is for general education and does not replace individual assessment by a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult a doctor for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

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