Body composition refers to the relative amounts of fat, muscle, bone, and other tissues in the body. It is an important measure of health and fitness, as it can be used to track progress towards fitness goals, identify potential health risks and make informed decisions about diet and exercise.
There are a number of different methods that can be used to measure body composition but a DEXA scan is considered to be the gold standard. DEXA stands for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and it is a non-invasive procedure that uses low-dose X-rays to measure the density of different tissues in the body.
What Does a DEXA Scan Show?
DEXA scans can provide a detailed breakdown of body composition, including:
Fat mass: This is the amount of fat in the body.
Lean body mass: This is the amount of muscle, bone, and other tissues in the body.
Bone mineral density: This is a measure of bone strength.
DEXA scans are accurate and precise, and they can be used to track changes in body composition over time. They are also relatively quick and easy to perform, and they do not require any special preparation.
Why Use a DEXA Scan To Check Body Composition?
To track your progress towards fitness goals
If you are trying to lose weight or gain muscle, a DEXA scan can help you track your progress and make sure that you are on track.
To identify potential health risks
Body composition can be used to identify potential health risks, such as obesity, osteoporosis, and sarcopenia.
To make informed decisions about diet and exercise
A DEXA scan can help you make informed decisions about diet and exercise by providing you with a detailed breakdown of your body composition.
To monitor treatment for obesity, osteoporosis, or other conditions
DEXA scans can be used to monitor treatment for obesity, osteoporosis, and other conditions that can affect body composition.
What Are the Benefits of a DEXA Scan?
DEXA scans are relatively inexpensive. The cost of a DEXA scan varies depending on the provider, but it is typically less expensive than other methods of body composition assessment, such as MRI or CT scans.
DEXA scans are safe. DEXA scans use low-dose X-rays, which are considered to be safe for most people. However, if you have certain health conditions, you should talk to your doctor before getting a DEXA scan.
DEXA scans are quick and easy. A DEXA scan typically takes only a few minutes to perform. You will need to lie on a table while the scanner passes over your body. There is no pain or discomfort involved.
If you are looking for an accurate, precise, and safe way to measure your body composition, then a DEXA scan is a good option. We offer DEXA scans in London to provide valuable information about your health and fitness, and help you make informed decisions about diet and exercise.
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