Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis
Definition
Bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) is a technique used to estimate body fat percentage by measuring the resistance of electrical flow through the body's tissues.
Scientific / Technical Definition
Bioelectrical impedance analysis is a method that uses the electrical properties of the body's tissues to assess body composition. It involves passing a small, safe electrical current through the body and measuring the impedance, or resistance, to that current. Different tissues, such as muscle, fat, and water, have distinct impedance values, allowing the analysis to estimate body fat percentage, lean body mass, and other parameters.
Benefits
- Provides a quick and non-invasive method to assess body composition.
- Helps track changes in body fat percentage over time.
- Can be used to monitor the effectiveness of diet or exercise programs.
Examples
- Hand-held BIA devices
- Bathroom scales with BIA functionality
Additional Information
- importance: Bioelectrical impedance analysis is important for those looking to gain a deeper understanding of their body composition beyond basic weight measurements.
References
Last updated: 10/19/2024