Exploring the Science of Shape: How Physical Activity, Sleep, and Stress Affect Body Composition

In the contemporary context of health challenges, the focus on physical health has become a social and individual priority. Within this framework, body composition emerges as one of the key determinants of physical health, with deviations from normal body composition being associated with numerous pathological conditions that can lead to serious health issues. Consequently, there is an urgent need to synthesize the available knowledge and increase awareness regarding healthy body composition and the factors that shape its components. This narrative review aims to summarize the knowledge regarding the main components of body composition and the key factors that influence their development. The fundamental morphological characteristics and functions of the primary components of body composition-including adipose tissue, muscle mass, and bone tissue-are addressed. Furthermore, the available methods for assessing body composition are outlined. The role of three key factors that influence body composition is outlined, including, but not limited to, physical activity, sleep quality, and stress levels. Additionally, hormonal fluctuations that determine body composition in relation to the variability of these factors are discussed. The review provides evidence-based information that will be valuable both for disease prevention related to non-communicable diseases and for the promotion of health strategies aimed at long-term physical well-being.