This test is based on DEXA/DXA(Dual Energy X ray Absorptiometry).
It is the most reliable commercially available technique for body fat estimation.
Test employs x rays to estimate the content and proportion(percentage)of various types of tissues(including fat) in the body(Body Composition).
The amount and strength of x ray used are low and hence even frequent tests do not pose any threat of adverse reactions.
Test takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
What are the preparations needed before the test?
Wear loose clothes or hospital gown during the study.Tight fitting garments interfere with fat estimation.
Clear yourself off any metallic/plastic substances during the study.For the same reason avoid ‘zipped’ garments.
What is the ideal time of the day to get tested?
Late morning is the ideal period.
However any part of the day with adequate hydration would meet the requirements of an optimal study.
What not to do before the test?
Kindly do not undergo the test on an empty stomach before breakfast.
Kindly do not rush to test immediately after a training session,as measurement would be less accurate in these circumstances.
One off or series?
Rather than a single test,it is the serial tests that give us more meaningful insight about the total and regional body composition,goals for training
and what would be achieved after the targeted training.General accuracy of this technique is within the range of 5%.
It is advisable to undergo the test at a place where specialised professional experts are available.
In case of follow up tests it is again advisable to undergo with the same machine as with earlier sittings for the consistency of results for comparison.
With you in the ‘run’ for fitness!
Dr.Madhav Hegde,MD.