Tracking health goes beyond what a scale can show. Weight alone does not explain how much of the body is composed of fat, muscle, bone, or hidden internal fat. A DEXA Body Scan Fort in Lauderdale offers a more detailed and data-driven way to understand body composition and support long-term health tracking.
This advanced imaging method is increasingly used by individuals focused on metabolic health, fitness progress, and overall wellness insights.
What Is a DEXA Body Scan?
A DEXA (or DXA) Body Scan is a low-dose X-ray test designed to analyze body composition with a high level of precision. It measures fat mass, lean muscle mass, bone density, and visceral fat in a single scan. Because of its accuracy—often cited at up to 99%—it is considered one of the most reliable tools available for body composition analysis.
Unlike traditional measurements such as BMI or weight scales, a DEXA Body Scan Fort in Lauderdale provides a complete internal snapshot of how the body is structured.
Why Body Composition Matters for Health Tracking
Body composition plays a critical role in metabolic health, mobility, strength, and disease risk. Two individuals can weigh the same but have very different proportions of fat, muscle, and bone.
A DEXA scan helps identify:
- Whether weight changes are coming from fat loss or muscle loss
- Imbalances between lean mass and fat mass
- Changes over time that may not be visible externally
This information can support more informed wellness decisions, especially when tracking progress over months or years.
Understanding Visceral Fat and Its Impact
One of the most valuable insights provided by a DEXA Body Scan Fort in Lauderdale is the measurement of visceral adipose tissue (VAT). Visceral fat is the fat stored deep within the abdominal cavity, surrounding vital organs such as the liver and pancreas.
Excess visceral fat has been associated with increased risk for:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hormonal imbalances
- Metabolic dysfunction
Because visceral fat cannot be seen or accurately estimated from the outside, DEXA scanning offers a unique advantage by identifying this “hidden” fat.
Note: In individuals with a high accumulation of abdominal fat, the low-powered X-ray may not fully penetrate the area. In these cases, a manual estimate based on volume may be provided.
What the DEXA Body Scan Measures
A standard DEXA body scan can accurately measure:
Body Fat Percentage
Provides a clear breakdown of total fat mass and fat distribution across the body.
Lean Muscle Mass
Shows how much muscle is present in different regions, helping identify asymmetries or muscle loss.
Visceral Fat (VAT)
Estimates the amount of internal abdominal fat linked to metabolic health risks.
Bone Density (Total Body)
Measures overall bone tissue density across the entire body.
Important note: A total body DEXA scan does not replace a clinical bone density test used to diagnose osteopenia or osteoporosis. Clinical evaluations for bone health require additional imaging, review, and may involve separate fees and provider consultations.
What to Expect During the Scan
The DEXA scan process is simple and non-invasive. The individual lies flat on a scanning table while the machine passes overhead. The procedure typically takes only a few minutes and does not require injections or contrast agents.
Because the radiation exposure is very low, the scan is widely considered safe when used appropriately for health tracking.
Who May Benefit from a DEXA Body Scan?
A DEXA Body Scan Fort in Lauderdale may be useful for individuals who want to:
- Track fitness or strength-training progress
- Monitor metabolic health changes
- Gain clarity beyond traditional weight measurements
- Establish a baseline for long-term wellness tracking
It is often used as part of a broader health assessment rather than a standalone diagnostic tool.
Availability in Fort Lauderdale
Currently, DEXA body scanning is available at select wellness locations in the Fort Lauderdale area, including the Lauderdale Beach location associated with Liquivida Wellness Center. Availability may vary, and consultations are typically recommended to determine whether the scan aligns with individual wellness goals.
Track body composition with a DEXA Body Scan inFort Lauderdale at Liquivida Wellness Center for accurate health insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a DEXA body scan painful?
No. The scan is non-invasive and painless. You simply lie still while the scan is completed.
How long does a DEXA scan take?
The scan itself usually takes just a few minutes, with minimal preparation required.
Can a DEXA scan diagnose osteoporosis?
A total body DEXA scan does not diagnose osteoporosis. A clinical bone density evaluation is required for diagnosis.
How often should a DEXA body scan be done?
Frequency varies depending on individual goals. Many people use it periodically to track changes over time.
Is radiation exposure safe?
The radiation dose used in a DEXA scan is very low and generally considered safe for routine health tracking.
