DEXA Body Composition Scan

A 15-minute DEXA scan measuring body fat percentage by region, lean muscle mass distribution, visceral adipose tissue, and bone mineral density. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is the clinical gold standard for body composition assessment, providing precision that scales, calipers, and bioimpedance devices cannot match.

BodySpec's DEXA Body Composition Scan uses dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry to produce a detailed map of the body's composition in approximately 15 minutes. The technology passes two low-dose X-ray beams through the body at different energy levels, allowing the scanner to differentiate between bone, lean tissue, and fat tissue with a level of precision that no consumer-grade body composition method can approach. The scan produces several key measurements. Total body fat percentage provides an overall adiposity reading, while regional breakdowns show fat distribution across the arms, legs, trunk, and android (abdominal) region separately. This regional detail is clinically important because fat distribution patterns -- particularly visceral fat accumulation around the abdominal organs -- are more predictive of metabolic health risks than total body fat percentage alone. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) is measured directly by the DEXA scan. VAT surrounds internal organs and is metabolically active, producing inflammatory compounds associated with insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and metabolic syndrome. Tracking VAT changes over time provides actionable feedback on how diet, exercise, and lifestyle modifications are affecting the most health-relevant fat depot in the body. Lean muscle mass distribution reveals symmetry or imbalances between left and right sides and between upper and lower body. This data is valuable for athletes identifying muscular imbalances that may predispose them to injury, for rehabilitation patients tracking recovery, and for anyone assessing whether their training programme is producing the intended changes in muscle development. Bone mineral density is assessed as part of the standard scan, providing an early indicator of osteopenia or osteoporosis. This measurement is particularly relevant for women approaching or past menopause, endurance athletes at risk of relative energy deficiency, and anyone with family history of bone density concerns. The radiation dose from a DEXA scan is extremely low -- roughly equivalent to a few hours of natural background radiation, or less than the exposure from a transcontinental flight. The scan is safe for repeated use, making it suitable for longitudinal tracking at intervals of three to six months. At $45, BodySpec offers the most affordable DEXA scanning in Los Angeles. The appointment takes approximately 15 minutes from arrival to departure. No fasting is required, no referral is needed, and the scan is HSA and FSA eligible. Results are available immediately after the scan, with a detailed digital report delivered via email.