Which molecule is primarily involved in energy storage in the body?

Lipid is the primary molecule involved in energy storage in the body due to its high energy density. Lipids, such as fats and oils, store more energy per gram than carbohydrates or proteins because they contain long hydrocarbon chains which can be metabolized through a process called β-oxidation. When energy is needed, the body can break down these fat stores to release fatty acids, which are then converted into energy.

Carbohydrates, while also a source of energy, are primarily used for immediate energy needs and are stored in the form of glycogen in the liver and muscle tissues. However, the energy yield from carbohydrates is lower than that from lipids.

Proteins serve many critical functions in the body, such as building and repairing tissues, and while they can be used for energy, this is not their primary role. Furthermore, proteins are not stored in the body as a form of energy but rather are available for usage when necessary.

Nucleotides are primarily involved in the storage and transfer of genetic information and the energy currency of the cell (like ATP), but they do not play a significant role in energy storage in the conventional sense.

In summary, lipids are the best-suited molecules for energy storage due to their efficient energy