*This is a collaborative post.
Science is amazing! We have the technology to accurately scan body composition (e.g. mass of fat, water, muscle and bone in the body, and how it is distributed) and bone density. We are able to precisely monitor this information and even check how it changes over time.
What’s more is that access to these kinds of services are available for enthusiasts of sports and fitness, and dedicate dieters alike; infact, anyone can get body composition and bone density scans to track a wide variety of data that will help them in their progress. This can include information such as body fat, muscle and bone weight percentages, body fat and muscle distribution, an analysis of dangerous fat (visceral) around the organs or statistical breakdowns on the torso, arms and legs. All this can be achieved via a DEXA scan.
Short for Dual-Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry, DEXA, uses two differing X-ray beams to create an accurate map of your body and composition. It is low dose and highly accurate.
There are different types of DEXA scans; Body Composition and Bone Density. They are very safe procedures that are used in public and private hospitals worldwide. Depending on what you’re scanning for (bone density is about double the time) scans can be less than ten minutes and it is possible to get an on-the spot assessment.
Why Have a DEXA Scan?
There are many reasons to have a DEXA scan. One obvious example would be taking a bone density scan, which measures how strong bones are, for medical conditions such as osteoporosis (a condition where the bones weaken making them more prone to breakage).
The body composition tets is also one of the most accurate ways to get clear indicators of critical fat build up around vital organs (active or visceral fat). This fat is invisible externally and can build up through inactive lifestyles or through stress (due to a hormone called cortisol being released into your system). With strokes, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and breast cancer all being risk factors of visceral fat, a DEXA scan might literally save your life (with the right lifestyle changes after, of course).
As DEXA scans give incredibly precise readings of fat and muscle distribution, and allow you to see muscle asymmetry, this also allows for corrective behaviour in day-to-day activities to prevent injury (especially sporting). So they are a fantastic option for those finding themselves regularly injured in sports (or normal activities), or those simply wanting to reduce the risk of.
So whether you’re looking for a baseline health assessment, are actively having medical issues, or are an athlete, fitness fanatic, or body builder, going for a DEXA scan is a great way of getting the information you need.