Definition: Body composition refers to the make up of lean tissue and fat tissue in the body. Lean tissue is composed of muscle, bone and organs. Fat tissue is composed of three different categories: essential fat, storage fat and non-essential fat. Essential and storage fat are both necessary for the body to function, while non-essential fat serves no real purpose. Learn more about calculating your body fat.
Body Composition
By Paige Waehner, About.com Guide
Updated June 17, 2009
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board
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