Preparation

DEXA Body Composition Preparation

If you are considering having more than one DEXA body composition scan and want to track small changes in your body composition, consistent preparation is essential for accurate and reliable results.

Following consistent preparation guidelines helps minimise biological variability and external factors that could influence the scan measurements. To ensure the most accurate and consistent results from your DEXA body composition scan, please follow these preparation guidelines:

Schedule your DEXA scans at the same time of day for each appointment (when possible).

Strive to eat the same or similar meals before each scan to minimise variations in digestion and nutrient absorption. Refrain from consuming large meals within 6 hours before the test. However, a light snack within 2 hours or a smaller meal within 6 hours is acceptable. If you are also booked for the Resting Metabolic Rate and Energy test, fast for at least 4 hours, including caffeine and stimulating drinks (minimal water intake is okay).

Maintain a consistent exercise routine before each scan. Either continue with the same type of exercise or avoid vigorous physical activity (exceeding 20 minutes with noticeable sweating) for up to 6 hours before the scan, or don’t exercise. If you are also booked for the Resting Metabolic Rate and Energy test, avoid strenuous activity 12 hours before the test.

Check for metal zippers, snaps, fasteners, belts, and under-wire bras. Avoid wearing any jewellery, including piercings, if possible. You will be asked to remove your shoes and may be provided with a disposable gown if needed.

Drink fluids as you normally would but avoid excessive intake within 24 hours before the scan. Additionally, refrain from drinking more than 1 litre of water immediately before the scan. Empty your bladder before the procedure to minimise any variation due to bladder content.

If you are following a low-carb diet, aim to have your scan performed under the same dietary conditions each time. This accounts for potential changes in glycogen storage that might affect muscle mass measurements.

Do not schedule a DEXA scan if you are pregnant or have undergone radiology procedures involving contrast agents, such as Barium Enema, contrast MRI, CT scan, or other imaging contrast studies, within the past 7 days. These agents can affect the quality of the scan results.

By adhering to these comprehensive instructions, you can optimise the accuracy and consistency of your DEXA scan results, making it easier to monitor changes in your body composition over time.

Remember that biological variability can impact the measurements, and following these guidelines will help minimise these variations for a more reliable assessment of your progress. If you have any specific questions or concerns about the preparation or procedure, don’t hesitate to contact us.

DEXA Body Composition Preparation – Research Participants

No food or water for 8 hours prior to testing.

No vigorous physical activity for 24 hours.

No alcohol intake for 24 hours.

Maintain normal hydration, but avoid excessive fluid intake within 24 hours before your scan.

Do not take calcium supplements on the day of your DXA scan.

Please empty your bladder and bowels before testing.

  • DXA scans should not be scheduled within 7 days of imaging procedures involving contrast agents (such as a barium enema, contrast MRI, or CT scan).
  • While this is not a safety concern, contrast materials can affect scan accuracy.
  • If you have recently had, or are planning to have, any such procedures, please notify the research clinic so your DXA appointment can be rescheduled if needed.

Metabolic Testing Preparation

For the most reliable resting measurement, your metabolic rate needs to be in a stable resting state. Please follow these preparation instructions:

Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 12 hours before testing.

Do not eat for at least 5 hours before the test.

  • Avoid caffeine and other stimulants for at least 5 hours before testing.
  • Avoid nicotine for at least 5 hours before testing.
  • Avoid alcohol for at least 12 hours before testing.

Drink only minimal water during the fasting period if required.

Continue prescribed medications unless your treating clinician has instructed otherwise.

Arrive rested and allow yourself time to relax before the assessment.

If you are repeating the test, try to perform each assessment under similar conditions and at a similar time of day.

DEXA Bone Density Preparation

Before the Scan:

Wear comfortable clothing without metal (such as zippers, buttons, or underwire bras). You may be asked to change into a gown.

Avoid taking calcium supplements for 24 hours before the test, as they can interfere with scan accuracy.

Inform the clinic if you have had any of the following in the last 7 days:

  • Barium studies (e.g. barium swallow, enema)
  • Nuclear medicine scans
  • CT scans with contrast

DNA Testing

How do you prepare for a DNA test?

All it takes is a simple DNA cheek swab to discover your genetic blueprint and feel better than ever. To ensure accurate results, please refrain from eating, drinking, chewing gum, or smoking for 2 hours prior to swabbing.

Sample Reports


DEXA Body Composition Scan

Resting Metabolic Rate & Energy Test

Bone Density (Lumbar spine & Hip)

DNA Comprehensive Wellness Report