What is the body fat percentage?

The percentage of body fat is the amount of fat that 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.

The percentage of body fat is an important measure to evaluate the health and physical condition of a person, since an excess of body fat can increase the risk of chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, arterial hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

There are several ways to measure the body fat percentage.

All about body fat:

The Body fat It is one of the ways in which the body stores food from food.

It fulfills several important functions in the human body:

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

- Help regulate body temperature by acting as thermal insulator.

- Body fat also fulfills an important function in the protection and damping of internal organs, and is essential for the proper functioning of different biological processes, such as The absorption and use of fat -soluble vitamins.

Maintaining a healthy percentage of body fat is important to maintain good health and prevent disease -related diseases.

How is the body fat percentage measured?

There are different methods for Measure the body fat percentage. Some of the most common methods are the following:

1. Electric Bioimpedance (BIA): This method uses a device that sends an electric current through the body and measures the resistance that it finds on its path. Body fat tends to resist electric current rather 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 by an entire 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. Cutaneous folds: This method involves taking leather folds measurements in different areas of the body with a special caliber 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 Bioelectric Impedance (SBIA): This method is similar to BIA, but is performed in different bodily segments to provide a more precise measurement of body composition.
5. Computed tomography (TC) or magnetic resonance (RM): 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 the choice of 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 according to the sex and age of the person. In general, women have a higher body fat percentage than men due to hormonal and biological differences. Next, the ranges of healthy body fat for men and women in different age groups are presented:

MEN:

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

WOMEN:

• From 20 to 39 years: 21-33%
• From 40 to 59 years: 23-35%
• 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 according to the physical constitution and body composition of each person. Therefore, it is important to consult with a health professional to evaluate the percentage of body fat individually and receive specific recommendations on how to maintain a healthy body composition.

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Risks of a very low body fat percentage:

Have a low body fat percentage It can be desirable for some people (especially for high -performance athletes) A ​​too low body fat percentage can also be harmful 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 a percentage of body fat too low can affect fertility both in 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. Low sports performance: Although a low body fat percentage is associated with a better physical condition in some sports, in others it can affect performance.
5. Immune problems: A body fat percentage too low can compromise the immune system, which increases the risk of diseases and infections.

How to reduce body fat:

The best way to lower the percentage of body fat 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.