Fat oxidation

Fat oxidation is the process by which your body breaks down stored fat into usable energy. When you exercise or go for a walk, your muscles need energy, and they draw from fat reserves. During this process, fat molecules are broken down into smaller components, called fatty acids, which then enter your cells' energy factories, called mitochondria. Inside the mitochondria, these fatty acids are further processed to produce energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This process is a key way your body supplies sustained energy, especially during longer periods of activity or fasting.