Hi Connie,

A body fat of 15% and body weight of 195 pounds, indicates that you are in great shape.  The average female body fat is 22-25%.  A body fat percent below 12% is unhealthy for a female.  Body fat percent that is too low, leads to low energy and weak bones (stress fractures/osteoporosis).

Here is a breakdown of body fat percents for females:

Essential fat 10-12% (Do not drop below 12% body fat)

Athletic 14-20%

Fitness 21-24%

Acceptable 25-31%

Obese >32% (32% or greater associated with increased health risks)

At 195# and 15% body fat, your body fat percent is within the "athletic category".

You can use the percent to calculate your fat mass (195 x 15% = 29 ¼ pound fat mass) and lean body mass (195 x 85% = 165 ¾ pound lean body mass).

Another tool you may refer to is body mass index.

All the best,

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN

Lower Cholesterol, Control Blood Pressure, Lose Weight