Nutrition for Athletes: Body Composition

define essential fat

fat in the body that is an essential part of the tissues, such as cell membrane structure, nerve coverings, and the brain.

define set point theory

the weight-control theory that postulates that each individual has an established normal body weight. Any deviation from this set point will lead to changes in body metabolism to return the individual to the normal weight.

define subcutaneous fat

the body fat found immediately under the skin; evaluated by skinfold calipers.

define android obesity

male-type obesity in which the body fat accumulates in abdominal area and is a more significant risk factor for chronic disease than is gyroid-type obesity.

define visceral fat

the deep fat found in the abdominal area; measurement of this fat requires special techniques, such as MRI.

define gyroid obesity

 female-type obesity; body fat is deposited primarily about the hips and things.

define hypertrophy

excessive growth of a cell or organ; in pathology, an abnormal growth

define anorexia nervosa

a serious nervous condition, particularly among young women, marked by a loss of appetite and leading to various degrees of emaciation.

define hyperplasia

the formation of new body cells

define bulimia nervosa

an eating disorder involving a loss of control over the impulse to binge, the bins-purge syndrome.

define BMI

an index calculated by a ratio of height to weight, used as a measure of obesity

define anorexia athletica

a form of anorexia nervosa observed in athletes involved in sports in which low percentages of body fat may enhance performance, such as gymnastics or ballet.

define hydrodensitometry

(hydrostatic weighing) underwater weighing based on Archimedes’ principle using the buoyancy of water displacement and was previously the gold standard. The standard error of measurement (SEM) is 2-2.5%.

define DEXA

dual energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA, DXA) a computerized X-ray technique at two energy levels to image body fat, lean tissues, and bone mineral content.

define plethysmography

air displacement method which can be a reliable method overtime testing the same subject. The advantages over underwater weighing are no trapped air and more comfortable method for subject compared to underwater weighing.

what is the function of fat in the body?

Essential fat is needed to provide energy, insulation, protect our organs, cell structure, absorb fat-soluble vitamins, hormone production, brain health, satiety, and metabolism. 

essential fat in males represents about _____ of the body weight

3%

essential fat in females represents about _______ of the body weight

12-15%

normal BMI

18.5-25.0

overweight BMI

25.0-25.9

obsese BMI

30.0-34.9

morbid obesity BMI

35.0+

the only direct method to analyze body composition is by ___________ of all fat and other

dissection

what method of assessment in body composition is now regarded as the “gold standard”?

DEXA, dual energy x-ray absoptiometry

what may be involved in influencing the food intake?

the temperature

how does heat influence food intake?

curbs (lowers) the appetite

how does cold influence food intake?

increases metabolism and hunger

creeping obesity is caused by

not changing eating habits as you get older. As many people get older their physical activity lessens but their eating habits stay the same. Even if you continue physical activity your metabolism is likely to slow down and it is important to continue to adjust every so often.

genetic factors that can cause obesity

shared family genres, shared family environment, exercise habits, and eating behaviors

environmental factors that can cause obesity

temperature, interference with hormonal and cytokine functions, environmental chemicals, and viruses

why is obesity in children and adolescents such a concern?

obesity often carries over into adult hood and can cause medical conditions. Obesity can also cause death.

when should weight-loss drugs be used?

for certain medical reasons and when someone is severely overweight. It is important not to use weight-loss drugs under certain medical conditions and they should always be used under supervision from medical professionals. 

why might weight-loss drugs be an option?

need to loose weight quick and help change mental state.

the most highly successful regimen for the treatment of anorexia nervosa involves what strategies?

The help from medical professionals but there is not a set solution. The treatment will require mental training to switch the way of thinking as well as adjust the nutritional intake and have a support system to continue the work and help prevent relapses.

the set-point theory of weight control is based upon a feedback system, that suggests what?

the individual is programmed to be a certain body weight and that the body will always attempt to maintain that weight by regulating hunger and metabolism.

what part of the body is believed to be the regulatory center for the control of the various feedback mechanisms?

the hypothalamus

Although there is error associated with the prediction of body fat percentages from all measurement techniques currently being used in most fitness facilities and research laboratories, which of the following is believed to be the most accurate measure of body composition, i.e., body fat and lean body mass?

DEXA

Protein consumed during a starvation-type diet most likely will be used how?

For energy rather than for rebuilding and forming new tissue to grow muscles because the body only has enough energy for its normal necessary functions of living.

Which cells in the body secrete leptin?

adipose cells

What are the components of the metabolic syndrome?

Must be obese and have three or more of the following symptoms: hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, impaired glucose intolerance, increased small, dense LDL-cholesterol particles, decreased HDL-cholesterol, hypertension, and increased plasma fibrinogen and clotting.

What is the books philosophy on the use of drugs or herbal supplements for weight control?

some herbal supplements may potentially improve aspects of health while others are ineffective. most herbal supplements also caused dangerous side effects when used with a drug and are not effective if the mental philosophy does not change.