DEXA Osteometry, Visceral Fat, and Health Risks
In today’s health-conscious world, more and more people are paying attention to how their bodies store fat. Among the various types of body fat, visceral fat draws particular attention due to its significant impact on health. One of the most accurate and effective methods for measuring this type of fat is DEXA osteometry. In this article, we will explore what DEXA technology is, how it measures visceral fat, and why it’s important to monitor its levels.
What is DEXA Osteometry?
DEXA (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is an innovative body analysis method originally developed for measuring bone density. The technology uses low-intensity X-rays to provide detailed information on body composition, including bone density, muscle mass, and different types of fat. DEXA scans not only analyze total body fat percentage but also distinguish between subcutaneous and visceral fat, making it an especially valuable tool for precise diagnosis and prevention of diseases linked to excess visceral fat.
What is Visceral Fat?
Visceral fat accumulates around internal organs in the abdominal cavity, such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. Unlike subcutaneous fat, which is located just beneath the skin, visceral fat has distinct biological properties and plays a role in hormone production and inflammatory processes. Excessive accumulation of visceral fat is associated with a higher risk of several serious diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
The Health Risks of Excess Visceral Fat
Visceral fat is metabolically active, meaning it secretes hormones and inflammatory molecules that can harm the body’s health. Its buildup is strongly linked to insulin resistance, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes. It also contributes to cardiovascular diseases by raising triglyceride levels and LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood, which increases the risk of atherosclerosis and high blood pressure.
Why is DEXA an Effective Method for Measuring Visceral Fat?
Traditional methods for measuring body fat, like waist circumference or Body Mass Index (BMI), cannot accurately determine how much of this fat is visceral. This is where DEXA osteometry comes in. It provides detailed information on fat distribution across various parts of the body and can differentiate between visceral and subcutaneous fat.
DEXA scanning is particularly useful for individuals who have normal weight but high levels of visceral fat—a phenomenon known as TOFI (“thin outside, fat inside”). Through such scanning, dangerous levels of visceral fat can be detected even in people with normal weight, enabling patients and physicians to take preventive measures.
How to Reduce Visceral Fat Levels
While visceral fat can be persistent, it responds to lifestyle changes. Regular physical exercise, especially cardio and high-intensity interval training (HIIT), has proven effective in reducing this type of fat. Additionally, balanced, low-carbohydrate eating, stress management, and sufficient sleep are essential for maintaining healthy levels of visceral fat.
At Regina Life Clinic, we offer specialized software that provides extremely accurate measurements of visceral fat levels, a critical health risk factor. Knowing precise levels of this fat allows individuals to make informed lifestyle changes and take preventative measures against serious health issues. In the long term, reducing visceral fat can improve quality of life and increase longevity.
