Body Composition Analysis There is growing evidence that clearly links body composition with health risks and the development of certain diseases. New research indicates that fat loss, not weight loss, can extend human longevity. By measuring body composition, your health status can be more accurately measured and the effects of both diet and physical activity programs fine-tuned. Body composition is the amount of fat vs. lean muscle tissue in the human body. These are commonly expressed as a percentage of a person's total weight. Body weight alone is not a clear indicator of good health because it does not distinguish how many pounds are from fat and how many are from lean body mass. The more lean tissue you have the more calories you burn. The goal is to get your body fat percentage to a normal range and to build your lean tissue. To build lean tissue it is important to get regular physical activity along with a healthy diet. Today, millions of Americans are realizing the importance of regular physical activity in their everyday life. Exercise not only provides more energy and confidence but also increases the chances for a long and healthy life. If your goals are weight loss, maintenance, weight gain, or body sculpting or if you’re working with a personal trainer or in a self designed program, a body composition analysis can give you precise fat/lean body mass breakdown. Weight loss or gain is an unreliable indicator of the effectiveness of a fitness program. A true indicator of your fitness level is the amount of fat vs. lean body mass. A body fat analysis test will allow you to see your body composition and set realistic goals, in terms of weight adjustment, eating habits and exercise. At OB-GYN Associates Body Composition Diagnostic Center, Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA) is now available to measure body composition for both men and women. This technology gives accurate and precise measurements including bone mineral content, bone mineral density, lean tissue mass, fat tissues mass and percentage of fat. The scan takes approximately 6-7 minutes, is painless and non-invasive and you are able to remain fully clothed. DEXA is the new “gold” standard because it provides a higher degree of precision in body composition measurement and has the ability to show exactly where fat is distributed throughout the body. Knowing your body fat percentage can also help you determine if your weight loss goals are realistic. Weight loss doesn't always mean fat loss. So before you decide that you need to lose weight, remember to consider that weight consists of both lean body mass and body fat. Try to keep your weight loss goals realistic, and remember, keep the calorie-burning muscle, and lose only the fat.