From the Research
Ideal Body Composition for Female Immune System
The ideal body composition for the female immune system is a topic of ongoing research, with various studies providing insights into the relationship between body composition and immune function.
- The ideal body fat percentage (BFP) for females is estimated to be between 20% and 30% 1.
- A study on elite collegiate athletes found that female athletes in different sports had varying body fat percentages, with the highest being 25.4% for volleyball players and the lowest being 12.9% for track and field athletes 2.
- Another study suggested that female university students with higher muscle mass and lower body fat percentages tend to have better physical activity levels and dietary intake status, which can contribute to a healthier immune system 3.
- In terms of muscle mass percentage, research suggests that having higher muscle mass in early adulthood is important for preventing sarcopenia and maintaining immune function 3.
- However, the ideal muscle mass percentage for females is not explicitly stated in the available research, and more studies are needed to determine the optimal range.
Factors Influencing Body Composition
Several factors can influence body composition in females, including:
- Physical activity level: Higher physical activity levels are associated with lower body fat percentages and higher muscle mass percentages 3, 2.
- Dietary intake status: A balanced diet with adequate protein and nutrient intake can support healthy body composition 3.
- Chronotype: Female university students with a later chronotype (i.e., evening type) tend to have higher body fat percentages and lower muscle mass percentages than those with an earlier chronotype 3.