Anti-Aging Strategies

For the general population, a body fat composition of 7 to 13 percent for men in their forties, less than 14 percent for men in their fifties, and less than 15 percent for men in their sixties fits into the "excellent" category. But according to University of Minnesota cardiologist and epidemiologist Art Leon, MD, these low numbers may be unrealistic and even unhealthy for some people. According to Leon, an average fat composition is more like 17 to 23 percent for men in their forties, 18 to 24 percent for men in their fifties, and 19 to 25 percent for men in their sixties.

Just to keep any of you from becoming smug, elite male marathon runners have an average body fat range of 4 to 7 percent. Elite female runners can have 12 to 17 percent body fat. Some women may carry even less, but as their body fat drops, they risk getting sick or developing menstrual irregularity.

Though men are not usually known to become anorexic, it is possible to overexercise and undereat to the point of risking injury. For example, if you're participating in cold-weather activities, you should take care not to drop below 4 percent body fat. You