A DEXA, short for dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, is a full body composition scan that measures lean mass, fat mass, and bone density. This type of scan works by emitting low-dose x-rays that absorb bone tissue and soft tissue to compile an accurate profile of your body’s compositions and density.Â
DEXA scan measurements
Patients use DEXA body composition scan to assess their risk of osteoporosis, but it’s also a valuable weight management tool. DEXA’s low-dose x-rays distinguish between different types of mass in your body: mineral mass (bones), fat, and muscle mass. By mapping out your different mass types, DEXA scans give you a comprehensive picture of your body’s composition below the scan.
- Body fat%
- Lean muscle mass
- Muscle symmetry
- Visceral fat
- Fat Mass Index (fat in relation to your height)
- Android to Gynoid ratio ( Also known as the apple to pear shape ratio. A breakdown of where fat is stored in your body. Android fat refers to fat around your belly and gynoid fat refers to fat around your hips.)
Knowing exactly where your body stores excess fat tissue can help you tailor your fitness regimen to target those areas. Whether you’re trying to mitigate chronic pain or overhauling your nutrition to improve your lifestyle, your DEXA scan can serve as a baseline for your progress as you adapt new changes to reduce your body fat and increase your lean muscle mass.Â
Learn more about the benefits of DEXA scans here.