Research

Mixed

Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is the preferred criterion measure for body composition assessment because it provides a multi-compartment model including bone mineral content, offering higher accuracy than two-compartment methods.

If you have access to DXA, use it for the most accurate baseline of bone, fat, and muscle. However, recognize that other methods like BIA or skinfolds are valid for tracking changes over time if DXA is not accessible.

StrongSupportsHIGH confidence
Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry is currently the preferred criterion measure and has the advantage of quantifying bone mineral content in addition to FM and FFM, making this a three-compartment, or multi-compartment, model.
Clifton J. Holmes et al. · Nutrients · 2021

Why this rating

Stated as the 'preferred criterion measure' and 'gold-standard' alternative in the review.

Source

The Utility of Body Composition Assessment in Nutrition and Clinical Practice: An Overview of Current Methodology

Clifton J. Holmes et al. · Nutrients · 2021

narrative_reviewCited 363×
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