What is body fat percentage?

Body fat percentage is the amount of fat a person has in relation to their total weight. It refers to the proportion of fat in the body compared to other components, such as muscle, bone and visceral mass.

Body fat percentage is an important measure of a person's health and fitness, as excess body fat can increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease.

There are several ways to measure body fat percentage.

All about body fat:

Body fat is one of the ways the body stores energy from food.

It fulfills several important functions in the human body:

- Provides energy to the body when food is not enough.

- Helps regulate body temperature by acting as a thermal insulator.

- Body fat also plays an important role in protecting and cushioning internal organs, and is essential for the proper functioning of different biological processes, such as the absorption and utilization of fat-soluble vitamins.

Maintaining a healthy percentage of body fat is important for maintaining good health and preventing obesity-related diseases.

How is body fat percentage measured?

There are different methods to measure body fat percentage . Some of the most common methods are the following:

1. Bioelectrical impedance (BIA): This method uses a device that sends an electrical current through the body and measures the resistance it encounters in its path. Body fat tends to resist electrical current more than other tissues, so BIA can estimate the amount of body fat based on the resistance found.
2. Densitometry: Densitometry measures bone density and lean body mass using a whole-body X-ray scanner. Then, a formula is used to estimate the amount of body fat based on the difference in density between the tissues.
3. Skin folds: This method involves taking measurements of skin folds in different areas of the body with a special caliper and using a formula to estimate the amount of body fat based on the amount of skin that can be pinched in each area.
4. Segmental bioelectrical impedance (SBIA): This method is similar to BIA, but is performed on different body segments to provide a more accurate measurement of body composition.
5. Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): These methods are more expensive and use detailed images to measure the amount of body fat in different areas of the body.

It is important to note that each method has its advantages and limitations and that choosing the appropriate method will depend on the individual needs and characteristics of each person.

Ranges and percentages of body fat in men and women.

The percentage of healthy body fat varies depending on the sex and age of the person . In general, women have a higher body fat percentage than men due to hormonal and biological differences. Below are healthy body fat percentage ranges for men and women in different age groups:

MEN:

• From 20 to 39 years: 8-20%
• From 40 to 59 years: 11-22%
• From 60 to 79 years: 13-25%

WOMEN:

• From 20 to 39 years: 21-33%
• From 40 to 59 years: 23-35%
• From 60 to 79 years: 24-36%

It is important to note that these ranges are only a general guide and that the amount of healthy body fat can vary depending on each person's physical constitution and body composition. Therefore, it is important to consult with a health professional to evaluate your body fat percentage on an individual basis and receive specific recommendations on how to maintain a healthy body composition.

top Picsil

Risks of a very low body fat percentage:

Having a low body fat percentage may be desirable for some people (especially high-performance athletes), too low a body fat percentage can also be detrimental to health. Some of the risks associated with a very low body fat percentage are:

1. Hormonal problems: A very low body fat percentage can affect the production of important hormones such as testosterone and progesterone.
2. Fertility problems: Having too low a body fat percentage can affect fertility in both men and women.
3. Muscle and bone weakness: Body fat acts as a shock absorber for muscles and bones. A very low percentage of body fat can increase the risk of muscle and bone weakness, and increase the risk of injuries and fractures.
4. Poor sports performance: Although a low body fat percentage is associated with better physical condition in some sports, in others it can affect performance.
5. Immune problems: Too low a body fat percentage can compromise the immune system, increasing the risk of disease and infection.

How to reduce body fat:

The best way to lower your body fat percentage is to follow a healthy and balanced diet and exercise regularly, always under the supervision of professionals since each person is unique and requires a personalized plan.