How does the body store the energy it needs

Energy storage

Energy is stored in the body in a number of forms. There are small amounts of ATP and another high-energy molecule called creatine phosphate stored for immediate use in the muscle.

Once these are used, carbohydrates and fat stores are used to generate ATP. Protein is not stored in the body, but some body protein also is broken down to provide energy for exercise.

Carbohydrates are stored as glycogen in the muscles and liver. The amount of energy stored as glycogen is small, compared with the amount stored as fat and the amount of protein available.

There are between 60 and 120 grams (equivalent to 2 to 4 ounces) of glycogen stored in the liver. Stores are highest just after a meal.

Healthy eating

Liver glycogen supplies blood glucose between meals and during the night. Eating a good breakfast will replenish the liver glycogen that was used overnight. There are about 200 to 500 grams (about 1/2 to 1 pound) of glycogen in the muscles of a 154-pound (70-kilogram) person.

Muscle glycogen is used to fuel muscle activity. Consuming a high-carbohydrate diet can increase muscle glycogen levels.

The body's fat reserves are almost unlimited. It is estimated that a 130-pound (59 kg) woman has enough energy stored as body fat to run 1,000 miles (1,609 km). Most body fat is stored as triglycerides in adipose tissue under the skin and around body organs. There are also small amounts of fat in muscle.

Protein used as fuel comes from the breakdown of body proteins that are less important for survival, such as muscle proteins. A considerable amount of protein can be broken down before body function is affected.

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