Thick Vs Fat Difference: Understanding Body Composition
In recent years, the terms “thick” and “fat” have become a topic of discussion in the fitness world. However, many people use these two terms interchangeably which can lead to confusion. In this article, we will delve into the difference between thick and fat and what it means for your body composition.
Body fat is an essential component of the human body but when it gets to a high level, it becomes a cause of worry. When we refer to someone as fat, it doesn’t necessarily mean they don’t have muscle mass. Fat refers to the adipose tissue in the body which is stored energy. The body stores excess calories as fat which is then used when the body needs extra energy.
On the other hand, when we refer to someone as ‘thick,’ we are usually not talking about their body fat percentage. Instead, “thick” refers to someone’s body size, specifically a person who appears robust with a muscular frame.
However, it’s important to note that someone with a high body fat percentage and robust frame can easily be misinterpreted as “thick.” In other words, body fat percentage is a better indication of what’s happening within a person’s body than size alone.
Body fat percentage (BFP) is the percentage of your total body weight that is made up of fat. For men, a body fat percentage of 20% or higher is considered high, while for women, a body fat percentage of 30% or higher is considered high. The range for an average healthy male is 15% – 18% and for females 20% – 25%.
In contrast, the measurement of body mass index (BMI) is a widely used method for defining obesity. However, unlike BFP, BMI does not differentiate between fat and muscle mass. BMI only takes into account a person’s height and weight, which means that athletes with a high muscle mass can be classified as overweight or even obese, who actually are perfectly healthy.
Now that we have established the difference between “thick” and “fat,” it’s essential to understand the health implications of a high body fat percentage.
Excess body fat increases the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Carrying too much fat in the abdominal area can lead to metabolic syndrome, which is linked to insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Moreover, higher body fat percentage impact physical performance too. Extra weight makes everyday activities like climbing stairs more challenging for the body to handle. Also, people with a high body mass index may face more mobility limitations and experience lower self-esteem, thus impacting mental health.
While some people believe that working out is the only way to reduce body fat percentage, it turns out that diet plays an essential role. Here are some tips to help lower body fat percentage:
– Don’t skip breakfast and eat smaller meals frequently to keep the metabolism working consistently.
– Incorporate a protein-rich diet to maintain muscle mass during weight loss.
– Consume food containing fiber which reduces hunger and promotes weight loss.
– Avoid processed foods and increase the intake of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains.
Now, let’s discuss thick bodies. Having a high body fat percentage doesn’t automatically make someone “thick.” In contrast, some people, despite having low body fat percentages, can appear to be “thick” because of their muscle mass.
It’s important to recognize that “thick” bodies come in all shapes and sizes, and they’re all beautiful. Therefore, everyone should strive for the body composition that is best for their health and individual body type, rather than trying to conform to societal standards.
In conclusion, it is crucial to understand the difference between “thick” and “fat.” While the two terms might be used interchangeably, it’s essential to appreciate that “fat” refers to body fat percentage while “thick” refers to body size. Striking a balance between a healthy body fat percentage, adequate muscle mass, and a healthy lifestyle is crucial in achieving an overall healthy body.