Whether you’re trying to manage your weight, optimize athletic performance, or simply stay ahead of future health risks, this quick and non-invasive test can offer a detailed look into your body composition—and help guide decisions that affect your long-term wellbeing.
A DEXA scan uses two low-dose X-ray beams to measure how much bone mineral, fat tissue, and lean mass you have. The scan is painless, safe, and usually takes less than 20 minutes to complete.
Unlike basic weight or BMI measurements, a DEXA scan can break down your body into specific components: how much of your weight is fat, how much is muscle, and how dense your bones are. It also identifies visceral fat—the fat stored deep in your abdomen around vital organs—which is closely linked to chronic conditions like diabetes, stroke, and heart disease.
This level of precision makes DEXA scanning a powerful tool for preventive testing. It helps identify early risk factors before symptoms develop, giving you and your healthcare provider more time and better information to make proactive choices.
Who Should Get a DEXA Scan?
You may benefit from a DEXA scan if you:
- Are over 40 and want to monitor bone density
- Are starting or managing a weight loss or fitness plan
- Have a family history of fractures, heart disease, or diabetes
- Are at risk for osteoporosis or bone fractures
- Are an athlete tracking performance or recovery
- Are going through menopause or have hormone-related bone loss
In short, anyone who wants more insight into their internal health—beyond what the scale or mirror shows—can benefit from the information a DEXA scan provides.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Your Scan
There’s very little preparation required for a DEXA scan. You can eat and drink as usual, but you should avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours beforehand, as they can interfere with the results. It’s also best to wear clothing without metal fasteners, such as zippers, hooks, or underwire bras, as these can distort the images.
During the scan, you’ll lie flat on a padded table while a scanning arm passes over your body. The process is silent, painless, and takes between 10 to 20 minutes. There’s no need for sedation or recovery time afterward.
After the scan, your results will be reviewed by a physician or technician and shared with your healthcare provider. The report includes measurements for bone density, fat percentage, lean mass, and visceral fat levels. These numbers can help identify areas of concern, track progress, or tailor lifestyle recommendations that actually reflect what’s going on inside your body.
Why DEXA Scans Are a Key Tool in Preventive Testing
Poor body composition—especially excess visceral fat and low muscle mass—can raise your risk for serious conditions like:
- Heart disease
- Diabetes
- Osteoporosis
- Metabolic syndrome
- Sarcopenia (age-related muscle loss)
A DEXA scan makes it possible to catch these issues early. This allows for more targeted changes to lifestyle, training, or medical care—well before a health crisis develops.
InvestMed’s Approach to Preventive Testing
At InvestMed, we offer DEXA scans as part of our broader commitment to preventive testing and proactive care. Our health packages are designed to uncover potential health risks early—well before symptoms appear.
Each package includes:
- A one-hour physical exam with a medical professional
- A detailed one-hour results consultation, with custom recommendations based on your findings
- Access to advanced diagnostic tests that screen for over 500 diseases and conditions, including cancer and cardiovascular issues
- Flexible testing options and reduced wait times
- Financing plans for eligible patients
Whether you choose a risk-specific package or a full-body diagnostic review, you’ll receive clear answers and a thoughtful plan that matches your goals and needs.
Ready to learn more about your body from the inside out? Contact InvestMed today to book your DEXA scan or explore our customized preventive health packages.
