What is Body Composition and why does it matter for women?

Health is rarely subtraction, but rather the addition of enough good fuel for healthy living to expunge the bad.

Our founder Roma van der Walt underwent a DEXA scan, a full body scan (not Prenuvo) that can tell us a lot about our body composition (lean mass, fat percentage, bone density) which is crucial for longterm health. Here is why:

Metabolic Health

Excess body fat, particularly visceral fat (fat around the organs), is associated with an increased risk of metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. Maintaining a healthy body composition helps regulate metabolism, blood sugar levels, and hormone balance, reducing the risk of these chronic conditions.

Musculoskeletal Health:

Adequate muscle mass and bone density are essential for maintaining strength, mobility, and preventing age-related decline. As women age, they are particularly susceptible to conditions like osteoporosis and sarcopenia (muscle loss), which can increase the risk of fractures and functional limitations. Optimizing body composition through resistance training and proper nutrition supports musculoskeletal health and overall longevity.

Hormonal Balance:

Adipose tissue (body fat) plays a significant role in hormone production and regulation. Excess body fat can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to imbalances in estrogen, insulin, and other hormones. These imbalances can have implications for women's reproductive health, menstrual cycle regularity, and overall hormonal well-being, impacting longevity and quality of life.

Inflammation and Immune Function:

Adipose tissue secretes various pro-inflammatory molecules that contribute to chronic low-grade inflammation in the body. This chronic inflammation is associated with an increased risk of age-related diseases and impaired immune function. Maintaining a healthy body composition helps reduce inflammation and supports a robust immune system, promoting longevity and overall health.

Psychological Well-being:

Psychological Well-being: Body composition can also have a significant impact on psychological well-being and self-esteem. Maintaining a healthy body composition can enhance body confidence, promote a positive body image, and improve overall mental health, leading to a better quality of life as women age.

It is important to note that achieving a healthy body composition is not solely about weight loss or aesthetics but about maintaining a balance of fat and lean mass that is appropriate for an individual's age, genetics, and overall health. Adopting a holistic approach that includes regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, stress management, and other healthy lifestyle habits is key to optimizing body composition and promoting longevity for women.