Body fat is an important part of overall health and well-being. It has a variety of functions within the body and is used for energy, insulation, and cushioning. It also helps to regulate body temperature, store nutrients, and protect organs.
Why is body fat used?
Body fat serves many important functions in the body and is necessary for overall health and well-being. It is used for energy, insulation, and cushioning. Body fat helps to regulate body temperature, store nutrients, and protect organs. It also helps to produce hormones and helps to keep the immune system functioning properly.
How much body fat is healthy?
The amount of body fat that is considered healthy varies according to age, gender, and other factors. Generally, adults should aim for a body fat percentage of between 20 and 25 percent for women and 10 to 15 percent for men. For children and adolescents, the range is even lower. It is important to note that body fat percentage is not the same as body mass index (BMI). BMI is a measure of body weight relative to height and does not take into account body composition.
What are the risks of having too much body fat?
Having too much body fat increases the risk of a number of health problems including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Additionally, having too much body fat can lead to feelings of low self-esteem and depression. It is important to maintain a healthy body fat percentage to reduce the risk of these health conditions.