The Importance of Body Composition
One of the most clinically useful tools we use in our office to assess a patient with nutrition-related disease is the Bio-Impedance Analyzer (BIA) for body composition. This is an accurate, time-efficient method of ascertaining lean tissue and fat mass percentages, along with individualized basal metabolic rate, intracellular and extracellular water distribution in water compartments, and other parameters of overall health. From a BIA readout, we can develop a nutrition-based plan coordinated with the patient’s anthropometric measures, lifestyle, and health directives from the patient’s primary care doctor. What is the basis of body composition analysis and testing? Nutrition assessment is the first step in a thorough nutrition care process. A BIA is calculated with the patient’s particular anthropometric parameters (weight, height, sex, age). BIA Body composition analysis uses electric signals at different frequencies, which are impeded variably by body fat, fat-free mass, and water. BIA data are calibrated to DEXA, the gold laboratory standard for body composition analysis. A formerly noncompliant patient can sometimes realize the need for change when they see the “writing on the wall” of a BIA’s measurements, and in addition be encouraged to set realistic and measurable goals. BIA helps motivate a patient who is making necessary nutrition and lifestyle changes by monitoring progress and at times, indicating the need for further change to achieve the desired results.
References:
1) Role of impedance measurement in nutritional screening. Maisonneuve N et al. Rev Med Suisse Romande. 2004 Oct;124(10):611-5.
2) Validation of bio-impedance spectroscopy: effects of degree of obesity and ways of calculating volumes from measured resistance values. Cox-Reijven PL et al. Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord. 2000 Mar;24(3):271-80.
3) FirstLine Therapy, Therapeutic Lifestyle program; Advanced Nutrition Publications Inc; 2002.
Theresa A. Tsingis, D.C., M.S.
Lamorinda Nutrition
89 Davis Rd, #180, Orinda, CA 94563
Phone: 925.283.Well (9355)