(NaturalHealth365)  When we see slender people experiencing diabetes or heart problems, it often surprises us, as we don’t typically associate these health issues with a slim physique.  Conventional wisdom suggests that being within the “normal” weight range according to the Body Mass Index (BMI) calculation should protect us from weight-related problems.  However, as science reveals, our expectations can be challenged.

Recent research has uncovered a startling truth: approximately one-third of individuals with a normal BMI are considered obese based on their body fat percentage.   This means that even if you fall within the “normal” weight category, your body composition could still pose metabolic health risks.

If you are concerned about potential health conditions related to your body fat percentage, read on to gain clarity on these groundbreaking findings and discover strategies to improve your overall well-being.

BMI vs. body fat percentage: Which is more important?

The traditional classification of normal weight, obese, and morbidly obese is based on the BMI system, which calculates your body mass index by considering your height-to-weight ratio.  According to this concept, the more you weigh relative to your height, the unhealthier you are presumed to be.

Despite its widespread use, the BMI system has evident limitations.  One major flaw is that it fails to account for essential factors such as lean muscle mass, bone mass, water weight, or body fat.  Consequently, even highly fit individuals with considerable muscle, like Dwayne Johnson, could be classified as obese according to BMI, which clearly doesn’t reflect their actual health status.

In contrast, a study from Israel proposes that body fat percentage serves as a far superior predictor of metabolic diseases compared to BMI, and there are compelling reasons for this shift in perspective.  Accumulation of adipose tissue around our organs can impair their proper function.  Additionally, excessive intra-abdominal fat demands more blood supply and places additional stress on the heart, contributing to health complications.

As we delve deeper into the importance of body fat percentage, it becomes apparent that it holds significant implications for metabolic health, offering a more accurate insight into the potential risks associated with weight-related conditions.

How dangerous is body fat?

Body fat serves important functions in the body, providing cushioning, reinforcing the skin, and assisting with insulation against the cold.  It is a necessary component for overall bodily functioning.

However, when body fat levels become excessive, it can pose significant dangers to your health.  One major concern is the added stress on the cardiovascular system.  Excess body fat increases the workload on the heart, potentially leading to hypertension (high blood pressure), atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries due to plaque buildup), and other cardiovascular issues.

Furthermore, stored body fat releases pro-inflammatory hormones into the bloodstream.  Chronic inflammation in the body can disrupt normal metabolic processes and contribute to a range of health problems, including insulin resistance, which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

Even individuals with a normal BMI may have an unhealthy amount of internal fat.  This is known as “normal-weight obesity,” where individuals appear to be of healthy weight according to BMI but have a high percentage of body fat relative to their overall weight.  This condition can be an early indicator of underlying metabolic issues, diabetes risk, and heart problems.

It is essential to recognize that body fat distribution and composition play a significant role in determining health risks.  Therefore, focusing solely on weight and BMI may not provide a comprehensive understanding of one’s metabolic health.

How can I get rid of excess body fat?

The good news is that losing excess body fat can dramatically improve your health.  Not only does it lower your risk of metabolic diseases like diabetes or certain types of cancer, but reducing body fat lowers the stress on your cardiovascular system.

To get rid of excess body fat and improve your health, consider adopting the following strategies:

Dietary changes:  Reduce your intake of excessive sugar, which can overload the liver and trigger fat storage.  Replace unhealthy snacks and parts of your meals with healthier (organic) alternatives.  Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, sprouts and healthy fats.  Pay attention to portion sizes, eat slowly (chew well), and avoid emotional eating.

Stay hydrated:  Drink plenty of clean water throughout the day to support metabolism and help control hunger.

Exercise regularly:  Engage in both cardiovascular workouts (like walking, jogging, or cycling) and strength training to burn calories and build lean muscle.

Get adequate sleep:  Prioritize quality sleep to regulate hormones that control appetite and metabolism.  The key times to be asleep are between 10 pm and 2 am, but of course a bit longer for the most regenerative benefits.

Reduce stress:  Manage stress through activities like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature, as high stress levels can contribute to weight gain.

Seek professional guidance:  Consult with a holistic doctor and/or health coach for personalized advice and a tailored plan to achieve your weight loss goals.

Don’t be alarmed if you believed being within a normal BMI range means you are metabolically safe.  Having more information is always beneficial, and now you understand how body fat percentage plays a crucial role in your health.

If you discover that your body fat percentage is high, don’t worry.  You now have the tools to address it effectively.  Losing excess fat is one of the best steps you can take to improve your overall health, so take action today!

Sources for this article include:

Sciencedaily.com