Question

Explain what essential fat is and describe the gender differences in fat distribution.

Answer 1

Essential fat is the amount of fat the human body must have in order to function properly.
For males, fat distribution is concentrated around the waist, while for females, the fat is distributed at the buttocks, thighs and breast areas. 

Answer 2

Essential fatty acids are constituent fatty acids and those that are not solely used as fuel for the body. These fatty acids cannot be synthesized by the body but are required in the diet. They include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.

Fats are distributed differently in the body depending on sex. Females sex tend to store their fat in the gluteal-femoral region while men store their fats majorly in visceral (abdominal) regions.