What is endogenous fat? ?

Question

I'm reading a study on hummingbird metabolism that said that "Hummingbirds initially oxidized endogenous fat". Any insight would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Endogenous means - that which your body creates on it's  own.

For example - some diabetics need insulin injections to live.  They take 'Exogenous' insulin - produced externally and injected.  Some diabetics still have the capacity to make insulin; often referred to as 'endogenous' insulin, or insulin produced by the body.

Therefore, the 'Hummingbird initially oxidizing endogenous fat' would mean that the Hummingbird initially oxidizes it's own stored body fat, rather than some other source of energy.

Great question and KEEP STUDYING SCIENCE!!!!