Body composition analysis

Why weight is not enough

Two people of the same weight and height can have completely different bodies. The same thing happens during weight loss treatment: losing three kilos by losing muscle is a poor outcome, even if the scales applaud it. A body composition study breaks down what actually makes up your weight:

• Fat mass and its distribution, especially abdominal fat, which is most closely linked to metabolic risk.
• Muscle mass, the tissue that supports metabolism, strength and independence.
• Body water and its distribution.

How it is measured

Using bioimpedance: the device sends an imperceptible electrical current through the body that behaves differently depending on the tissue it encounters. It is a quick, painless and radiation-free measurement. It is complemented by anthropometry—weight, height, circumferences, and skinfold thickness when required—which provides information that the device cannot give.

How to prepare for accurate results

• Avoid heavy meals and alcohol in the hours leading up to the test; ideally fast for a few hours.
• Stay well hydrated, but avoid drinking large amounts of fluid immediately beforehand.
• Avoid intense exercise or saunas on the same day.
• Empty your bladder beforehand and remove any metallic objects.
• Always repeat the test under similar conditions: the real value lies in tracking your progress, not in a single snapshot.

What the results are used for

To adjust your plan: if you are losing muscle, protein intake and training are revised; if body fat decreases even when your weight has plateaued, you stay the course instead of giving up. It is the tool that transforms a diet into active clinical monitoring. In athletes, it is also used to plan the season. A word of caution: it is not performed during pregnancy or in patients with pacemakers or other implanted devices, as the data would not be reliable; in those cases, body composition is assessed using manual methods.