What is the BIA?
Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis or Bioimpedance Analysis (BIA) is a method of assessing your “body composition”— the measurement of body fat in relation to lean body mass. It is an integral part of a health and nutrition assessment. It is included free in all my new patient appointments because of the valuable information it provides to me as a clinician.
Why Is Body Composition Important to My Health?
Research has shown that body composition is directly related to health. A normal balance of body fat is associated with good health, disease prevention, and longevity. Excess fat in relation to lean body mass, known as altered body composition, can greatly increase your risks to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, inflammation and more. BIA fosters early detection of an improper balance in your body composition, which allows for earlier intervention and prevention. BIA provides a measurement of fluid and body mass that can be a critical assessment tool for your current state of health.
How Does a BIA Work?
BIA is much more sophisticated than your bathroom scale, but just as simple—and almost as quick. BIA is performed in our office with the help of medical equipment. This analyzer “calculates” and estimates your tissue and fluid compartments—using an imperceptible electrical current passed through pads placed on your hand and foot as you lie comfortably clothed on an exam table. In just minutes, we’ll have detailed measurements to help create an effective, personalized program for you.
How is it different?
Unlike your bathroom scale, the BIA results will show us how your body composition is improving over time through exercise and an improved diet. For example, your overall weight may remain the same, however you may have replaced 1lb of fat with 1lb of lean muscle. The BIA will show this result. Your scale or your BMI (body mass index) will not show this improvement!
So BIA measures your progress as you improve your health. Improving your BIA measurement, or maintaining a healthy BIA measurement, can help keep your body functioning properly for healthy aging. Your BIA results will help guide me in creating a personalized dietary plan, including nutritional supplements when appropriate, and exercise to help you maintain optimal health and wellbeing for a lifetime.
We can conduct a series of follow-up BIA tests to monitor your health and measure your progress.
Guidelines for Accurate Testing
For the most accurate results, the following guidelines should be followed:
1. Do not eat for 4 hours prior to testing.
2. Do not exercise for 12 hours prior to testing.
3. Do not consume alcohol for 24 hours prior to testing.
4. Drink at least 1 quart of water one hour before your test.
5. Do not drink caffeine the day of your test.
6. Do not wear pantyhose.
7. Do not put lotion on your hands and feet.
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