Your health isn't measured in kilos, but in well-being.
Your health isn't measured in pounds, but in well-being. Many people focus solely on weight as an indicator of health, but this number doesn't reflect what's really happening inside the body. Two people can weigh the same and have completely different bodies. The reason lies in their body composition. Understanding it is essential.
What is body composition?
Body composition refers to the proportion of fat mass, muscle mass, water, and other tissues that make up your body. Weight is just the total sum, but body composition shows you how that weight is distributed, allowing you to know if your physical changes are related to fat loss, muscle gain, or simply fluid shifts.
Why is weight not a good indicator of health?
Weight can change due to factors such as hydration, water retention, menstrual cycle, stress, or increased muscle mass. The scale doesn't differentiate between fat and muscle, so you can be making progress in your health without seeing a significant change on the scale. You can also have a "normal" weight but a high percentage of body fat, which increases the risk of metabolic diseases.
Benefits of knowing your body composition
Measuring your body composition allows you to assess your true progress, beyond just your weight. It helps personalize your diet, adjust your protein and other nutrient requirements, and detect conditions like sarcopenic obesity. Improving your body composition also boosts your energy, strength, posture, and metabolism, positively impacting your overall well-being.
How is body composition measured?
Several methods exist for evaluating these parameters. Bioelectrical impedance analysis is one of the most widely used techniques in nutritional consultations, as it allows for the determination of body fat percentage, muscle mass, body water, and metabolic age. Other methods include DEXA scans, skinfold measurements, and anthropometric measurements, each providing useful and complementary information.
Conclusion
The goal isn't just to lose weight, but to improve your body composition in a healthy way: reducing fat, increasing or maintaining muscle mass, and optimizing your body's functions. These changes aren't always reflected on the scale, but they are reflected in your energy levels, metabolic health, and overall quality of life. Understanding your body composition gives you a more complete picture of your well-being and helps you build sustainable habits geared toward real and lasting health.