This manual is part of the computer program MyCalorieCoach. You can print this manual and use it with the software.
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This manual is part of the computer program MyCalorieCoach. You can print this manual and use it with the software.
This manual is intended to provide general information about the automatic measurement or calculation of the fat levels that can be used in MyCalorieCoach.
There are a number of ways to measure fat levels. The most commonly used method is one whereby the size of your skin and fat layers is measure in a number of places on your body, after which a table is used to determine your fat levels. This technique requires special equipment and expertise.
There are scales on the market with an on board fat meter. These scales send an electrical signal through your body and measure the resistance (from foot to waist to foot). Based on this resistance and on the density of the fat and water, your fat levels can be measured. There are various scales available and not all of them measure with equal accuracy.
If you know your fat levels, you can enter them into MyCalorieCoach. If you have no way of measuring your fat levels yourself, you can have it measured.
Because not everyone can have his or her fat levels measured or buy expensive equipment to do it themselves, MyCalorieCoach can accurately measure your fat levels using the formula designed by Hodgdon and Beckett. It is an approximate measurement that unfortunately applies only to a body of average build. You can have your fat levels calculated automatically in the third tab of the daily settings.
Based on your physical measurements, MyCalorieCoach will tell you what the state of your fat levels approximately is. If you want an exact measurement, we recommend seeing your GP, dietician or fitness centre. When measuring your body, pay attention to the following points:
Enter the values you have measured in the third tab of the daily settings. MyCalorieCoach will calculate your fat levels automatically. You can look up your fat levels in the table presented below.
The values presented in the table below are generally accepted reference values, which provide a guideline to determine whether your fat levels are correct. The following reference table is for men.
| Male | Low | Good | To high | Far to high |
| Age 20 to 39 | Less then 8% | 8% to 20% | 20% to 25% | 25% and higher |
| Age 40 to 59 | Less then 11% | 11% to 22% | 22% to 28% | 28% and higher |
| Age 60 to 79 | Less then 13% | 13% to 25% | 25% to 30% | 30% and higher |
Women are allowed to have fat levels that are twice as high than men, without damaging their health. The following reference table is for women.
| Female | Low | Good | To high | Far to high |
| Age 20 to 39 | Less then 21% | 21% to 33% | 33% to 39% | 39% and higher |
| Age 40 to 59 | Less then 23% | 23% to 34% | 34% to 40% | 40% and higher |
| Age 60 to 79 | Less then 24% | 24% to 36% | 36% to 42% | 42% and higher |
The information on this page has been compiled with the utmost care. Nevertheless, it is possible that the information is not entirely correct. This information is not intended to replace trained professionals, but it is intended purely for educational purposes. Neither the information on this page nor use of the software can be viewed as replacing medial or other professional assistance or information provision. The information on this not intended to serve as a tool for (self)diagnostics. Visitors are recommended to present medical questions, complaints or symptoms to a doctor in time.
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