In our pursuit for a longer and healthier life, science continually uncovers tools that help us understand our bodies better. One remarkable tool is the DEXA scan.

DEXA is originally designed to check bone density, but it goes beyond that to show a detailed picture of our overall health.

Let’s have a chat below about how DEXA scans work and how they can help us to live healthier and longer.

Bone density = Longevity

Research shows that a hip fracture significantly increases an older person’s risk of death, with one in four people dying within 12 months after a hip fracture. Monitoring your bone density through a DEXA body composition scan can help you to detect bone abnormalities early, and prevent osteoporosis, hip fractures… or any fractures!

Your bone health is closely linked to nutritional factors like calcium and Vitamin D and magnesium. Lower blood magnesium levels are associated with osteoporosis, affecting around 30-40% of mainly menopausal women. Many people (about 20%) consistently consume less magnesium than recommended, leading to lower bone density and higher fracture risk.

Our in-house Naturopath Melissa McDonald says that the best form of magnesium for bone reabsorption is magnesium citrate, and whilst 80% of Australian’s are magnesium deficient, supplementing is highly recommended.

What about my metabolism?

One of the key facets of the science behind DEXA scans lies in their ability to make a very good estimate of Resting Metabolic Rate (RMR) or Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). Calculations based on the amount of lean mass measured by a DEXA scan can show how efficiently our bodies burn calories at rest. This crucial information not only aids in weight management, but also provides insights into the metabolic factors influencing the aging process.

Is your body composition the blueprint for longevity?

Maintaining a healthy body composition, including appropriate levels of lean muscle mass for your height, and low levels of body fat for your height, is generally associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, which can contribute to a longer and healthier life.

A DEXA scan will include in its report your Lean Mass Index (LMI) and Fat Mass Index (FMI). These give you an accurate read on whether your fat and lean mass are in the appropriate range for your body type and height, helping you to set sensible goals.

Lean Mass & Sarcopenia

Lean mass, which includes your muscles, bones, and organs, plays a significant role in supporting metabolic function, mobility, and strength. However, as we grow older, some often experience sarcopenia, a progressive loss of muscle mass and function. This decline not only diminishes physical performance but also increases the risk of falls, fractures, and metabolic disorders.

By using a DEXA scan to determine your risk of sarcopenia, we can accurately assess muscle mass, track changes over time, and recommend targeted interventions to improve your lean mass health.

The ripple effect

While DEXA scans provide numerical data, the impact they can have on longevity goes beyond the statistics. When you fully understand your body composition and where you should be for your height and your age, that creates a very motivating ripple effect in lifestyle choices. When you become armed with this knowledge, you are better equipped to make informed decisions, leading to a longer and more healthy future.

If you’re curious about your lean mass, visceral fat, android/gynoid fat ratio, bone density or body fat percentage, book in for a DEXA scan, today.
Click here to book a dexa scan.

References

PMID: 33260549

PMID: 31825817