What role does the lymphatic system serve in fat metabolism

In the intestine, lymphatic capillaries (lacteals) are necessary to absorb dietary fats in the villi of the small intestine. Lacteals are important for lipid transport from the small intestinal epithelium to the lymphatic vasculature and blood circulation (Dixon, 2010).

The lymphatic system has many functions, including macromolecules transport, fat absorption, regulation and modulation of adaptive immune responses, clearance of inflammatory cytokines, and cholesterol metabolism.

Dysfunction of the lymphatic system can lead to altered lipid transport and fat depositions, and can lead to lymphedema along with progress of the metabolic risk factors underlying metabolic syndrome.

Summary. The lymphatic system is our body's 'sewerage system'. It maintains fluid levels in our body tissues by removing all fluids that leak out of our blood vessels. The lymphatic system is important for the optimal functioning of our general and specific immune responses.