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Comparison · metabolic

DEXA vs BIA Body Composition

DEXA is the clinical gold standard for body composition — directly measures bone, lean mass, and fat by region. BIA estimates the same via electrical conductance and is sensitive to hydration. DEXA is decisive for baseline; BIA is appropriate for high-frequency trend.

Reviewed by Dr. Laura PurdyMay 29, 2026
Attribute
DEXA scan
Bioelectrical Impedance (BIA)
Accuracy
Gold standard
Lower, hydration-sensitive
Regional resolution
Yes — arms, legs, trunk, visceral
Whole-body or limited
Accessibility
Clinic or scan facility
Home device
Cost per scan
Higher, infrequent
Low, daily
Use case
Baseline + recalibration
Trend, behavior feedback
Choose DEXA scan

DEXA is decisive at baseline and at the recalibration cadence — regional fat and visceral fat readings drive optimization.

Choose Bioelectrical Impedance (BIA)

BIA is appropriate as a daily trend tool when calibrated against DEXA — it should not be the decisional marker.

Educational. Final pathway selection is provider-reviewed via synchronous video consultation against your biomarkers, history, and goals.

Frequently asked

Can BIA replace DEXA?

No — BIA can supplement DEXA between scans but does not replace it for decisional use.

How often should DEXA be repeated?

Typically at baseline and at each major recalibration window — provider-reviewed cadence.

Next step

Take the optimization assessment.

The adaptive assessment maps your symptoms, history, and goals to candidate pathways — and routes you into provider review.

Begin assessment