There are several types of body composition tests. They work in different ways and have different costs. Some providers may allow you to have these body composition tests without a prescription, but others may require a doctor’s approval.
Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA/DXA) Scan
A DEXA scan, also known as a DXA scan, is the name of a body composition test commonly used to measure bone density to diagnose osteoporosis. It is carried out using a device manufactured by different manufacturers. It also measures body fat and muscle to determine your muscle-to-fat ratio and visceral fat.
This test is considered more accurate than other methods, such as bioelectrical impedance (discussed below). It uses low-dose X-rays to directly measure body composition, while the accuracy of methods such as bioelectrical impedance can be affected by hydration and food intake.
For the test, you will lie down and remain still while a scanner passing a beam of high- and low-energy x-rays moves over your body.
It takes about 15 minutes.
A DEXA scan typically costs between $160 and $175 without insurance.
A DEXA scan can help you manage your weight and screen for bone diseases such as osteopenia and osteoporosis, says Russell F. Camhi, DO, a primary care sports medicine physician at Northwell Health Orthopedic Institute in Great Neck, New York.
DEXA is not recommended for children or pregnant women due to the radiation contained in x-rays, and the equipment cannot accommodate individuals with a BMI of 35 or greater (this is considered a serious category of obesity).
It is also dangerous to have a DEXA scan if you have surgical implants or a pacemaker.
Point under
The Bod Pod is a human-sized, egg-shaped device that uses air movement to determine your body fat and lean body mass.
It is considered the gold standard for measuring body composition.
Currently, the Bod Pod is also the only device available that uses air displacement plethysmography, a technique for measuring body composition by calculating the volume of air it displaces.
The procedure typically takes 15 minutes and involves sitting inside the machine while wearing tight-fitting clothing and a swim cap. The Bod Pod collects your body volume and mass by measuring changes in air pressure while you are inside the chamber, then calculates your body’s density and composition.
There are no restrictions, but the Bod Pod may be uncomfortable for those who don’t like small spaces.
The Bod Pod can also determine your metabolic rate (the number of calories your body needs to perform its basic functions) and your total energy expenditure (the total number of calories your body needs each day). It usually costs less than $100.
Bioelectrical Impedance Assessment (BIA)/InBody Scan
BIA technology uses an electric current to measure body fat, muscle mass and water content. Current passes through body fluids, fat, muscle and bone at different speeds. The BIA device collects this data and uses it to calculate your body composition.
InBody is the brand name of a popular BIA device. To use it, you’ll stand on a scanner with sensor electrodes touching various parts of your body and grip both arms of the device.
Then, a painless, non-invasive electric current passes through your body for about 30 seconds.
Your results are immediately available on a touch screen.
InBody tends to be the quickest and cheapest option (usually costing around $50). However, Cavanna cautions that it is also the least accurate. For example, your body water to fat ratio can change significantly if you are sick, dehydrated, or have lost weight. BIA technology is also less accurate for people with a BMI of 35 or more.
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