Adipose Tissue

Adipose tissue is your body’s fat tissue — it stores energy, cushions your organs, and helps regulate your body temperature. While some fat is essential for health, excess adipose tissue, particularly around the abdomen, contributes to weight-related conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

Adipose tissue is a specialised connective tissue composed primarily of adipocytes that functions as the primary energy reservoir through triglyceride storage and lipolysis. It is now recognised as an active endocrine organ, secreting adipokines such as leptin, adiponectin, and resistin that influence appetite regulation, insulin sensitivity, and systemic inflammation.

Understanding adipose tissue function helps patients appreciate why weight management is not just about appearance — it is about reducing metabolically active fat that drives inflammation and chronic disease. At Accord Medical, Dr Joseph Wang uses body composition analysis to assess adipose tissue distribution, not just total weight.