Low Body Fat in Men

Extremely low body fat can lead to serious health problems, including death. Although men require less fat than women, male physiology requires essential fat for proper physiological function. Understanding low body fat in men allows you to avoid injury and make proper health and fitness decisions.

Fat Function

Fat plays a key role in immune, metabolic and reproductive system function. The body uses fat for cell structure and energy storage and to create a protective cushioning around organs. Without fat your body cannot absorb the fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Body fat also contributes to temperature regulation and hormone production.

Fat Ranges for Men

Body weight can be divided into fat and fat-free mass. Body fat percentage represents the amount of your total body weight comprised of fat. According to the "Personal Trainer Manual: The Ultimate Resource for Fitness Professionals" by the American Council on Exercise, men require two to five percent body fat for essential function. Male athletes tend to have six to 13 percent body fat, while 14 to 17 percent is considered fit, 18 to 24 is considered average and higher than 25 percent is categorized as obese. It is important to note that these ranges apply to men, and women have higher fat requirements than men. A healthy body fat range allows you to avoid health issues associated with inadequate or excessive amounts of fat.

Low Body Fat Risks

A man with low body fat may have dry skin, increased cold sensitivity, reduced energy, hair loss, impaired immune system function and increased bruising. Although athletes tend to have reduced body fat, body fat amount below essential level will result in decreased athletic performance. Health issues will worsen if fat levels are kept at a decreased level.

Testing Options

Body fat percentage can be estimated in multiple ways that range in cost and accuracy. Clinical options such as under water weighing are more accurate than non-clinical methods such as skin fold measurements. Because all methods use specific equations to estimate fat percentage, tests range in accuracy from plus or minus two to six percent. Therefore, finding a skilled test administrator and using multiple methods will provide the most insight into percent body fat.

Considerations

Most universities provide fitness testing to the public for a small fee. Variables such as hydration and stomach fullness will influence test results, and it is best to follow pretest directs provided by test administrators. Although body fat tests provide useful information, they do not replace medical evaluation or advice. Therefore, consult with a doctor if you believe that your body fat level is too low.