Body Fat Compass

BMI Calculation Method

Body fat percentage (BFP) formula for adult females:

BFP = 1.20 × BMI + 0.23 × Age - 5.4

Fat in the body, being overweight, and obesity

The scientific term for fat in the body is "adipose tissue." Adipose tissue fulfills several essential roles. Its main function is to store lipids that the body uses to generate energy. Moreover, it releases several vital hormones and offers the body some protection along with insulation.

Body fat consists of essential body fat and stored body fat. Essential body fat is a fundamental level of fat present in various areas of the body. It is essential fat that sustains life and reproductive functions. The quantity of essential fat varies between genders, generally being about 2-5% for men and 10-13% for women.

The normal body fat percentage for men is generally considered to be between 8-19%, whereas for women, it is 21-33%. Excess body fat can lead to various harmful impacts on health, but too little body fat can also pose its health risks. Thus, keeping body fat levels below or even at the essential range should be a matter of conversation with a healthcare provider.

Storage fat is fat that gathers in adipose tissue, whether it is subcutaneous fat (beneath the dermis and around essential organs) or visceral fat (fat situated within the abdominal cavity, among organs), and mentions of body fat usually pertain to this category of fat. Although a certain level of storage fat is beneficial, having too much can lead to significant health issues.

Excessive body fat results in being overweight and eventually obesity if adequate steps are not taken to control rising body fat