What Is a Healthy Body Fat Percentage for Men?
One of the most essential measurements of health, especially in the current era, is body fat percentage. Most of us understand that, for most of us, weighing less is generally good for our health. However, weight itself, and other tools, such as body mass index, are inexact.
For example, two men of the same height can weigh exactly the same amount yet have two totally different body compositions distributed between muscle and fat. Body composition has vast consequences for overall health, and knowing your composition can help you understand how to eat and exercise for better health.
At Preventative Diagnostic Center, we take health seriously. With a DEXA scan, you can get an extremely accurate measurement of body composition and much more.
With transparent, competitive prices, state-of-the-art facilities, and friendly, knowledgeable staff, we are the premier location in Las Vegas for health screening.
Schedule your DEXA scan today.
What Is Body Fat Percentage?
Body fat percentage is a measure of the composition of your body. In other words, it’s the total percentage of your body that is made up of fat. For example, if a 180 lb. man has 20% body fat, 36 lbs. of that weight is composed of fat.
A standard scale only measures weight. Total weight can be an overall helpful metric, but it’s extremely inexact because the portion of muscle and other tissue to fat may be completely different for two different men.
If you’re on an exercise or weight loss journey, understanding body fat percentage can help you train, eat, and understand the complete picture of your health.
What Is Considered a Healthy Body Fat Percentage for Men?
Exact numbers for a healthy percentage of body fat for men vary by many factors, including age.
However, there are some general guidelines for adults:
- Men need at least 2% to 5% body fat to be considered healthy.
- For athletes and fitness enthusiasts, a range between 6% to 13% is ideal.
- The average healthy range is between 18% and 24%.
- More than 25% body fat is considered obese.
- For most men, a range between 10% and 20% is ideal and associated with good health.
Why Does Body Fat Percentage Matter?
Body fat percentage matters because, in general, more body fat is associated with negative health outcomes.
Excess body fat has also been linked to a number of undesirable conditions, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Sleep apnea
- Some cancers
On the other side, maintaining a healthy body fat percentage can have a whole host of benefits, including cardiovascular performance, energy levels, mobility, and even sexual performance.
How Is Body Fat Percentage Different From BMI?
Body mass index (BMI) is a screening tool that uses weight and height to try and determine a healthy weight. However, similar to the scale alone, this is an inexact tool and can cause confusion and even false health narratives.
Like weight, body mass index only approximates body composition. Two men, one muscular and one carrying excess fat, may score the same on a BMI test, but, in fact, have two very different health profiles.
Body fat percentage offers a far more accurate picture of health.
How Is Body Fat Percentage Measured?
The two most common options for testing body fat percentage are with skinfold calipers or a DEXA scan.
Measuring fat percentage with skinfold calipers is an older but inexpensive and accessible method to get a relative picture of fat percentage. However, it relies heavily on the skill of the person performing the measurement and is far less accurate than a DEXA scan.
A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is perhaps the most accurate tool for understanding body fat percentage. A DEXA scan provides detailed information about fat percentage, how fat and muscle are distributed, visceral fat, and more.
A DEXA scan is quick, non-invasive, and usually takes less than 15 minutes. For men in Las Vegas who are interested in fitness, weight loss, and preventative health, a DEXA scan is an invaluable tool for understanding their health and fitness goals.
For DEXA Scans and More in Las Vegas, Think Preventative Diagnostic Center
Body fat percentage is one of the best ways to understand your health and fitness goals, and a DEXA scan is the perfect way to measure it. The perfect place for a DEXA scan in Las Vegas? Preventative Diagnostic Center.
Our facilities are very private and best-in-class, our staff are knowledgeable and friendly, and our pricing is transparent and fair.