InBody vs DEXA Scans: Which is Better?

Body composition refers to the percentage of fat, muscle, bone, and other tissues in the body. It is important to accurately assess body composition because it can impact health and fitness. There are several methods for measuring body composition, including InBody scans and DEXA scans. But which one is more accurate?

How Does an InBody Scan Work?

InBody scans use a method called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to estimate body composition. BIA works by sending a small electrical current through the body and measuring the resistance to the current. The resistance is used to calculate the amount of fat, muscle, and other tissues in the body. InBody scans are quick and they provide results in just a few minutes.

One advantage of InBody scans is that they are non-invasive, meaning they do not involve any needles or incisions. They are also portable, which makes them convenient for use in various settings. However, there are some limitations to the accuracy of InBody scans. BIA can be affected by several factors, including hydration levels, temperature, and the presence of certain medications. These factors can lead to variations in the results of InBody scans making them less reliable as a tool to measure body composition changes over time.

How Does a DEXA Scan Work?

DEXA scans, also known as dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry, use low-dose x-rays to measure body composition. DEXA scans are considered to be the gold standard for measuring body composition because they are highly accurate and precise. DEXA scans can measure the amount of fat, muscle, and bone in the body with a high level of accuracy. They are also non-invasive and quick, taking less than 15 minutes to complete.

So, which one is more accurate: InBody scans or DEXA scans? DEXA scans are widely considered to be more accurate than InBody scans for measuring body composition. DEXA scans are able to provide precise measurements of fat, muscle, and bone, whereas InBody scans can be affected by various factors that can impact the accuracy of the results. However, InBody scans are still a useful tool for measuring body composition and can provide general information about your body.

What’s Next?

Measuring and reducing visceral fat is important for maintaining good health. Waist circumference and body composition scans can help you determine the amount of visceral fat you have, and a combination of diet, exercise, and sleep can help you reduce it.

You can measure your body fat and composition, lean mass gains and losses over time, and bone health by getting regular DEXA scans. DEXA scans can help you pinpoint regional changes in your muscle and fat as you work towards your goals. Your data will accrue and compare side by side in your BodySpec reports, so you can stay on track to being your best self. Find an appointment today!