Sports information

The harmful effects of excessively reducing the percentage of body fat

According to the University of Pennsylvania, the average level of fat in an adult should be between 15-20%, of which 3% are essential fatty acids, without which your body cannot continue life.

The percentage of fat that is less than 5% is considered a risk factor for the occurrence of many health problems in athletes, as bodybuilders usually reduce it to this percentage before the days of competition, but they should not maintain this percentage during the rest period later, as fat is considered essential for the body. As with other nutrients, especially for the health of the reproductive, muscular, and nervous systems, what happens if the percentage of fat in your body decreases below the required limit?

1- You may tend to have serious heart problems

A severe lack of fat may affect the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system. In one study published in the International Journal of Sports and Physiology, a group of bodybuilders prepared for a competition by reducing the percentage of fat in their body below the permissible percentage, so their heart rate decreased to 27. Beats per minute, i.e. they develop bradycardia and this may lead to fainting during competition or even sudden cardiac arrest and death.

2- Low energy levels

When fat levels are low, you will lose energy reserves and will not feel energetic due to your body’s need for energy. Also, a lack of fat will cause a decrease in thyroid hormone levels, which may lead to fatigue.

3- You may feel cold suddenly

Fat plays a role in maintaining the body temperature and provides insulation and protection for the viscera thanks to adipose tissue. Therefore, severe loss of fat may make you feel cold all the time. Also, an imbalance in the production of the thyroid gland, which occurs when severe fat loss occurs, may lead to an imbalance in the body’s thermostat and its internal temperature.

4- Effect on exercise and muscles

After 20 minutes of exercise, your body will consume carbohydrate stores for energy, then it will begin to use fat to complete the production of energy during the exercise. If you have a very small amount available for energy, your athletic performance will become more difficult, and not only that, as the percentage of fat decreases significantly. The percentage of glycogen or carbohydrates stored in the muscles and liver will decrease. Glycogen is necessary for muscle repair and recovery after exercise, and with low levels this will not happen.

5- Effect on the hormones leptin and testosterone

You will feel hungry constantly, as a significant lack of fat will reduce the levels of leptin, which is the hormone that is produced by fat cells and is responsible for the feeling of fullness. Therefore, its decrease will make you feel hungry if you abstain from consuming fat in your food within normal limits.

A decrease in leptin levels will lead to a decrease in testosterone levels, and this is what previous research also found, which was published in the International Journal of Sports and Physiology, where the testosterone levels of bodybuilders who reduced their body fat percentage before competitions were lower during the study, and a decrease in testosterone also means Decreased muscle strength and mass, and they took about 6 months to rebuild.

A lack of fat in your body may also affect bone and skin health and may put you in a bad mood, so always try to get a balanced diet that contains all the nutrients, even during the period during which you are drying. You must not abstain from eating fat, but rather eat it within the permitted percentages to keep your life healthy. .

Next Post in 20 seconds

You have visited 0 post(s)

  • Symptoms of high testosterone levels above normalSymptoms of high testosterone levels above normal
    Problems associated with excess testosterone in men are rare and are not a problem in middle-aged and older men who are not receiving testosterone or other steroid treatments. The real problem occurs when the testosterone level becomes too low rather than too high. However, very high testosterone levels have serious …
  • Empowering Health and Wellness: Exploring the Benefits of Online Fitness and Nutrition CoursesEmpowering Health and Wellness: Exploring the Benefits of Online Fitness and Nutrition Courses
    In an era where health and well-being stand as cornerstones of a fulfilling life, the pursuit of fitness and proper nutrition has garnered widespread attention. With the advent of digital technology, the accessibility and convenience of learning have been revolutionized. Online fitness and nutrition courses have emerged as pivotal tools, …
  • Reasons for losing muscle mass despite dietReasons for losing muscle mass despite diet
    The journey of building muscle and getting the body you dream of may take several months or even years of exercise and correct diet, but some may notice a loss of muscle mass during this journey due to making a set of simple mistakes that the person believes are correct …
  • Sculpting Your Abs: Unlocking the Secrets to Developing Strong Oblique MusclesSculpting Your Abs: Unlocking the Secrets to Developing Strong Oblique Muscles
    When it comes to achieving a well-rounded and defined midsection, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of the oblique muscles. Located on the sides of your abdomen, these muscles play a vital role in stabilizing the core, improving posture, and enhancing overall athletic performance. If you’re looking to develop …
  • Important tips for enlarging the leg musclesImportant tips for enlarging the leg muscles
    The leg muscles are considered one of the most important muscles for a bodybuilder because training and strengthening them increases the secretion of growth hormones and testosterone throughout the body. Today we have brought to you the most important tips that may help you get much larger and better leg …
  • What will happen if we mix creatine with whey protein?What will happen if we mix creatine with whey protein?
    Whey protein and creatine are both fundamental enhancements for controlling and creating muscle development, and you might have had blending protein in with creatine previously. However, is it a compelling plan to obtain the best outcomes? Whey protein: Whey Protein is a combination of protein and fundamental amino acids. It …
To Top