Body Composition Analysis
Achieve your goals with body composition analysis
Just keeping track of weight and BMI may not be enough to show the benefits of healthy choices. Body composition analysis using the DEXA dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is a quick and convenient way to see how improving diet, exercise, and lifestyle can change your body. With accurate and precise fat, lean, and bone measurements of each body segment, a body composition analysis can help you achieve your goals by reporting tangible results.
How do I prepare?
It is ok to eat and drink lightly 4 hours prior to the exam. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, avoiding garments that have zippers, belts or buttons made of metal. Objects such as keys or wallets that would be in the area being scanned should be removed.
Women should always inform their physician and x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant. Many imaging tests are not performed during pregnancy so as not to expose the fetus to radiation.
How does the procedure work?
The DEXA machine sends a thin, invisible beam of low-dose x-rays with two distinct energy peaks through the bones being examined. One peak is absorbed mainly by soft tissue and the other by bone.
You will receive a comprehensive report identifying the following information which can be taken to your nutritionist, personal trainer or physician. The following information is given:
- lean mass balance
- fat distribution
- resting metabolic rate
- relative skeletal muscle index
- bone density
- % of fat by body area
- Full body composition total