Hormones are important for controlling how our bodies handle fats. They help decide how we store fat and how we use it for energy. Some of the main hormones involved in this process are insulin, glucagon, catecholamines, and corticosteroids. Let’s break down what each of these does in simpler terms.

1. Insulin:

   • Insulin helps our bodies store fat by encouraging the creation of fats and stopping the breakdown of fats.
   • It works by increasing the activity of a special protein called acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). This protein is key for making fatty acids.
   • With insulin around, our bodies can make 2 to 3 times more fatty acids.

2. Glucagon:

   • Glucagon does the opposite of insulin. It helps break down fat in our fat cells.
   • This hormone activates another protein called hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL).
   • When HSL is active, more fatty acids are released into our blood. During times when we’re not eating, like when fasting, the amount of free fatty acids can go up by over 50%.

3. Catecholamines:

   • These hormones also help break down fats, especially during stressful times.
   • They work through special receptors called β-adrenergic receptors.
   • When stress happens, catecholamines boost HSL activity and can increase fatty acid release by up to 100%.

4. Corticosteroids:

   • These hormones help increase the production of a protein called lipoprotein lipase (LPL).
   • LPL helps take fatty acids from the blood into cells where they can be used for energy.

These hormones interact in complex ways to help our bodies manage energy and store fat. They play a big role in how we feel and function, showing just how important these hormones are in how we handle fats in our bodies.