How body composition is measured: the DXA Total Body scan

The number on the scales tells you nothing about the actual ratio of body fat, muscle mass, and bone in your body. Two people with the same weight can have a completely different body composition, and this can have varying consequences for their health.

The DXA Total Body scan analyses the entire body and accurately determines fat mass, lean (muscle) mass, and bone mineral content, whilst also showing how these are distributed across different areas of the body. The method uses a very low dose of radiation and delivers far more precise results than estimates based solely on weight or body mass index (BMI).

This assessment may be beneficial for people dealing with obesity, muscle mass loss, or significant weight changes, as well as for monitoring the results of a dietary or exercise programme. In essence, DXA Total Body provides a detailed picture of body composition and how it changes over time.