What is a Body Composition Test? And why do you need one?
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis or Bioimpedance Analysis (BIA) is a method of assessing your “body composition”—the measurement of body fat in relation to lean body mass. It is an integral part of a health and nutrition assessment.
Why is Body Composition Important to My Health?
Research has shown that body composition is directly related to health. A normal balance of body fat is associated with good health and longevity. Excess fat in relation to lean body mass, known as altered body composition, can greatly increase your risks to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and more. BIA fosters early detection of an improper balance in your body composition, which allows for earlier intervention and prevention. BIA provides a measurement of fluid and body mass that can be a critical assessment tool for your current state of health. BIA also measures your progress as you improve your health.
Improving your BIA measurement, or maintaining a healthy BIA measurement, can help keep your body functioning properly for healthy aging. Your BIA results can help guide us in creating a personalized dietary plan, including nutritional supplements when appropriate, and exercise to help you maintain optimal health and wellbeing for a lifetime. Lowering your percentage of unhealthy body fat can help to reduce your risk to the variety of serious health conditions.
How Does a Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis Work?
BIA is much more sophisticated than your bathroom scale but just as simple— and almost as quick. BIA is performed in our office with the help of computerized analysis. This analyzer “calculates” and estimates your tissue and fluid compartments—using an imperceptible electrical current passed through pads placed on your hand and foot as you lie comfortably clothed on an exam table. In just minutes, we’ll have detailed measurements to help create an effective, personalized program for you.
PRE-TEST BIA PREPARATIONS
- No alcohol consumption for 24 hours
- 2-4 glasses of water within 2 hours of a visit
- No exercise, caffeine or food for 4 hours prior to arrival
To ensure best results, kindly follow the pre-test preparations.
Follow-up Tests
A series of follow-up BIA tests are for monitoring your health and measuring your progress.
Body composition is a key indicator of health and vitality. – Download pdf flyer