If you’re considering a body composition analysis to better understand your health, choosing the right body composition scan clinic is essential. Whether you’re booking a DXA body fat scan or another advanced body composition test, asking the right questions can help you get accurate results and personalised insights that truly benefit your health journey.
At Mammi, we’re proud to offer the gold standard in body composition analysis through our BodyLogic DXA scan service. Before you schedule your next appointment, read on to know what questions are worth asking.
What You Should Ask Your Body Composition Scan Clinic…
1. What Type of Body Composition Scan Do You Offer?
Body composition can be measured using several methods, but DEXA (Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is widely regarded as the gold standard for accuracy. DEXA and DXA are used interchangeably, as they refer to the same technology. It provides detailed data on fat mass, lean muscle mass, and bone density using low-dose X-rays. Other methods include bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and hydrostatic weighing, but these vary in precision and convenience.
DXA is widely recognised as the preferred body composition assessment. Unlike other methods, DXA provides precise measurements of fat, lean muscle, and bone mineral density throughout your entire body. This technology was originally developed for bone density testing but has evolved into the most accurate method for comprehensive body composition analysis.
Our BodyLogic DXA scan offers unparalleled precision, measuring your body composition with accuracy that far exceeds traditional methods like calipers, bioelectrical impedance, or even hydrostatic weighing. When choosing a clinic, confirm they use true DXA technology rather than less accurate alternatives.
2. How Should I Prepare for My Scan?
Preparation can affect the accuracy of your results. For example, some clinics advise avoiding heavy exercise, eating, or drinking large amounts of water before the scan to ensure consistent hydration and muscle status.
Check with your clinic about any specific instructions, such as clothing requirements or whether you need to avoid metal accessories.
3. Is the Scan Safe? Are There Any Risks?
DEXA scans use very low levels of radiation-comparable to a short commercial flight or a few hours of natural sunlight exposure-and are considered safe for most people, including children and older adults. However, pregnant women should inform the clinic, as radiation exposure is generally avoided during pregnancy.
Understanding the safety profile will help you feel confident about undergoing the scan.
4. What Information Will I Receive From the Scan?
A comprehensive body composition scan report typically includes:
- Total and regional body fat percentage
- Lean muscle mass
- Bone mineral density
- Fat distribution patterns (e.g., android/gynoid ratio)
- Resting metabolic rate estimates
Ask your clinic what specific data they provide and how detailed the report will be.
5. Will I Get a Consultation to Explain My Results?
Interpreting body composition data can be complex. Many reputable clinics, especially those offering DEXA scans, provide a post-scan consultation with a specialist such as an exercise physiologist, dietitian, or physician. This session helps you understand your results and develop a personalised plan for fat loss, muscle gain, or bone health improvement.
Confirm if your clinic offers this service and whether it is included in the scan price.
6. How Often Should I Repeat the Scan?
Body composition changes gradually, so many experts recommend follow-up scans every 3 to 6 months to monitor progress and adjust health or fitness plans accordingly. Bone density assessments might be done annually for osteoporosis monitoring.
Ask your clinic about recommended scan intervals based on your health goals.
7. Can the Scan Help with Specific Health Conditions?
Body composition scans are valuable tools for assessing risks and reaching health goals. A quality DXA scan should provide actionable insights. Ask how the results can be applied to:
- Weight management strategies
- Exercise program design
- Nutritional planning
- Health risk assessment
- Sports performance optimisation
Our BodyLogic scan provides targeted recommendations based on your unique body composition profile, whether you’re focused on fat loss, muscle gain, athletic performance, or general health improvement.
8. What Are the Costs and Booking Procedures?
Costs can vary depending on the technology used and whether consultations are included. Some clinics offer packages combining scans with follow-up visits. Ask about pricing, insurance coverage, and how to book your appointment.
Conclusion: Why Choose a BodyLogic DXA Scan at Our Clinic?
Our commitment to providing the best body composition analysis available means you receive not just accurate measurements, but meaningful insights that can transform your approach to health and fitness. Book a BodyLogic DXA scan at our clinic and get precision that other methods simply cannot match, with comprehensive data about fat distribution, muscle mass, and bone density all in one efficient assessment.
Whether you’re an athlete looking to optimise performance, someone on a weight loss journey, or simply interested in understanding your body composition for better health, a BodyLogic DXA scan provides the foundation for informed decisions and measurable progress.
References:
- Health Sciences University Bournemouth, Body Composition Testing – Understanding the Importance of a Body Composition Test
- King Edward VII Hospital – Patient Information on Body Composition Scan
- UC Davis Health – DXA Body Composition Analysis
