Body fat is often treated as something to eliminate, but a certain amount is essential for the body to function normally. While excess body fat can increase the risk of conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, having too little can also affect important biological processes.
Adipose tissue is much more than an energy store. It stores excess energy for periods when food intake is lower and also releases substances involved in energy regulation, immune responses and other bodily functions. Fat also helps insulate the body, cushions organs and stores fat-soluble vitamins including A, D, E and K.
Body fat also has an endocrine role, meaning fat tissue produces and releases signalling substances and hormones that influence metabolism and other processes.
This is why extremely low body-fat targets promoted through fitness culture or social media can be problematic. Severe or prolonged energy deficiency can trigger hormonal and metabolic changes as the body attempts to conserve energy. Research on low energy availability has linked it with disruptions involving reproductive hormones, metabolism, bone health and physical performance.
At the same time, this does not mean that more body fat is automatically healthier. Where fat is stored matters, and excessive visceral fat around internal organs is associated with metabolic and cardiovascular risks.
The takeaway is that body fat is a necessary part of human biology, not simply excess weight to be removed. Health goals are better focused on overall nutrition, physical activity and metabolic health rather than pursuing an extremely low body-fat percentage.

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