How to Prepare for a DEXA Scan: Everything You Need to Know
If you’ve decided to get a DEXA scan to gain a deeper understanding of your bone density, body fat, and muscle mass, you’re making a great step toward better health! A DEXA scan is one of the most accurate ways to measure body composition, and it’s quick and painless . But if it’s your first time, you might be wondering how to prepare and what to expect.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to prepare for your DEXA scan, so you can get the most accurate results and have a smooth experience.
What is a DEXA Scan?
Before we dive into the preparation steps, let’s briefly cover what a DEXA scan is. A DEXA (dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry) scan is an imaging test that measures bone density, body fat, and muscle mass . It’s commonly used to diagnose conditions like osteoporosis and to track changes in body composition for fitness and health monitoring .
During the scan, you’ll lie still on a table while a scanning arm passes over your body. The entire process takes about 10 minutes and is completely painless .
How to Prepare for Your DEXA Scan
Preparing for a DEXA scan is straightforward, but there are a few key things to keep in mind to ensure accurate results. Follow these steps to get ready:
1. Wear Comfortable, Metal-Free Clothing
One of the most important things to consider is your choice of clothing. Since DEXA scans use x-rays, any metal on your clothing—such as zippers, buttons, or underwire bras—can interfere with the scan and affect the accuracy of the results .
To avoid this, wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes without any metal components. Athletic wear like leggings, sweatpants, or a T-shirt is a great choice. If your clothing does contain metal, you might be asked to change into a medical gown .
2. Avoid Taking Calcium Supplements for 24 Hours
If you take calcium supplements, it’s best to avoid them for at least 24 hours before your DEXA scan . Calcium can affect how the x-rays are absorbed by your bones, potentially leading to inaccurate bone density measurements .
It’s okay to eat foods that naturally contain calcium, but steer clear of supplements the day before your scan for the most accurate results.
3. Eat a Light Meal Before the Scan
You don’t need to fast before a DEXA scan, but it’s a good idea to avoid eating a heavy meal right before your appointment. Large meals, particularly those high in salt or carbohydrates, can temporarily increase the water content in your body, which could slightly impact the body composition measurements .
A light meal, like a salad, smoothie, or sandwich, is perfectly fine, but try not to overeat just before the scan.
4. Stay Hydrated, But Don’t Overdo It
Drinking plenty of water is always a good idea for overall health, but for your DEXA scan, there’s no need to overhydrate. You can drink water as you normally would, but avoid drinking large amounts of fluids right before the scan to prevent any temporary bloating or water retention that could affect the results .
5. Remove Jewelry and Accessories
Similar to avoiding metal in your clothing, you should remove any jewelry or accessories before your DEXA scan. Items like necklaces, rings, bracelets, or watches can interfere with the x-rays and may need to be taken off during the scan . If possible, leave jewelry at home to avoid the hassle of removing it on-site.
6. Wait After Recent Imaging Tests
If you’ve had any recent medical imaging tests that used contrast agents, like a CT scan or MRI, it’s best to wait at least a week before getting your DEXA scan. The contrast agents used in these tests can affect your DEXA scan results .
If you’ve recently had a scan with contrast, let the technician know. They’ll help you determine the best time to schedule your DEXA scan for the most accurate results.
7. Be Ready to Lie Still
The DEXA scan is painless and quick, but it’s important to remain still during the procedure to ensure accurate measurements . You’ll lie flat on a table while the scanner passes over your body. The process is comfortable, and there’s no need for any special positioning, but staying still for the short duration of the scan helps get the clearest results .
8. Plan for About 15-20 Minutes
Although the scan itself takes only around 10 minutes, plan to spend about 15-20 minutes at the facility to account for check-in, preparation, and any questions you might have . The process is quick and convenient, but allowing for a little extra time ensures that everything goes smoothly.
What to Expect During the Scan
During the scan, you’ll lie on a padded table while the scanner arm moves over your body. The scanner emits a very low level of radiation—much less than a standard x-ray—so it’s safe and non-invasive .
You won’t feel any discomfort or sensations during the scan. You’ll simply need to remain still while the scanner collects data. Once the scan is complete, you’re free to go about your day with no downtime or recovery period needed .
What Happens After the Scan?
Once your DEXA scan is complete, the results will be processed, and you’ll receive a detailed report. The report will provide measurements of your bone density, body fat percentage, muscle mass, and fat distribution . If you’re using the scan to monitor bone health, fitness progress, or weight management, these results can offer valuable insights into your overall health .
It’s always a good idea to discuss the results with your healthcare provider, especially if the scan was done for medical reasons like assessing bone density or monitoring osteoporosis .
Conclusion
Preparing for a DEXA scan is simple, and with a few easy steps, you can ensure the most accurate results. By wearing metal-free clothing, avoiding calcium supplements, and staying comfortable, you’ll be ready for your scan and get the detailed information you need to understand your body better.
Whether you’re tracking fitness progress, assessing bone health, or looking to make informed health decisions, a DEXA scan is a powerful tool that can provide clear, actionable insights into your body’s composition. Follow these preparation tips, and you’ll be all set for a smooth, efficient experience! Get started today by booking a DEXA Scan with Nomad Fit Lab.
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