What is the optimal body fat percentage range for women?

The optimal body fat percentage range for women is typically considered to be 15-25%. This range is associated with good health and is often deemed necessary to sustain reproductive functions and overall physiological well-being. Body fat is important for hormone regulation, energy storage, and insulation, among other functions.

When women fall within this range, they are generally able to maintain healthy menstrual cycles and support reproductive health, which can be adversely affected if body fat levels fall significantly below this threshold. On the other hand, body fat percentages that exceed this range may lead to increased health risks, including obesity-related conditions.

The other ranges provided are either too low or too high. For instance, the ranges of 5-10% and 10-15% represent body fat levels that are typically unsustainable or unhealthy for most women, as they could lead to issues such as hormonal imbalances and reduced fertility. Conversely, the range of 20-30% may be seen as acceptable for some individuals, but it is generally viewed as being at the higher end of the scale for optimal health markers. Therefore, the specified 15-25% range is considered the most beneficial for overall health in women.