Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA)
Bioelectrical impedance assay, also known as BIA, is used to measure the overall health of an individual by studying the electrical properties of the body. In order for a successful analysis three compartments of the body must be assessed:1) Fat; 2) Body Cell Mass; 3) Extracellular Mass. Fat is defined as the storage for potential energy. Body cell mass is the active components of the body where the work is being performed. Extracellular mass is also known as the mass outside of the cell components. The study measures body fat, lean body mass, how fast you burn calories, the ratio between weight and height, the flow of electrical current through the body (the higher the fat content the less current is able to circulate), and the hydration of the cell broken down into the amount of water within the cell versus the amount of water outside the cell. After performing the procedure, a detailed report is printed out which allows the patient to determine how well their body obstructs electric current flow. This technique is very useful for weight management, fluid management and nutritional assessment. It not only establishes a baseline measure of the general health status, but comparative studies are a useful method to examine the effectiveness of the protocols that the doctor has implemented.
