Why BMI is not the best measure of obesity
When starting a weight loss journey, stepping on a traditional scale may seem like the simplest way to track progress. However, your body is made up of more than just fat—it also includes muscle, bone and water. A regular scale only gives you a total number, making it hard to tell whether you're losing fat, water or even muscle.
This is where Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) comes in. BIA offers a more detailed look at your body’s composition, giving you better insight into your progress and helping you make more informed decisions about your health. This is the machine we use at our facility to help you lose weight the safe way!
What Is bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA)?
BIA devices, such as body composition scales, work by sending a very low electrical current through your body. Since muscle contains more water than fat and conducts electricity more efficiently, the device can estimate how much of your body is fat-free mass (muscle, bone, and water) versus fat mass. This method provides a more accurate picture of your overall health beyond just the number on the scale.
Benefits of using BIA for weight loss
We use a scale like this in our clinic for a more accurate analysis.
1. More than a number: a detailed body composition
Unlike traditional scales, BIA devices estimate your body fat percentage, muscle mass, bone density and hydration levels. This breakdown allows you to see where changes are happening in your body, giving you a clearer picture of your progress.
2. Monitor your muscle mass
Muscle is important for keeping your metabolism active. If you only track your weight, you might not realize if you're losing muscle along with fat. BIA allows you to monitor your muscle mass so you can focus on fat loss while preserving or even building muscle.
3. Track hydration levels
Staying hydrated is essential for good health, but did you know that hydration can also impact your weight? Some BIA devices measure total body water, helping you stay on top of your hydration and overall wellness.
4. Set realistic and personalized goals
Instead of focusing on just losing pounds, BIA helps you set realistic goals based on reducing fat while maintaining muscle and hydration. This leads to healthier, more sustainable weight loss.
5. Stay motivated with measurable progress
Seeing changes in your body composition—even when the number on the scale doesn’t move—can boost motivation. Tracking fat loss and muscle gain helps keep you accountable and reassures you that you're making progress, even if your total weight fluctuates.
Take charge of your health with a better approach
Incorporating BIA into your weight loss journey gives you a deeper understanding of your body’s changes. Instead of relying on a single number, you’ll have a more detailed, accurate picture of your progress. This means better goal setting, increased motivation, and a more successful weight loss journey.
If you're ready to take control of your health with a science-backed approach, consider adding BIA to your routine. At our obesity medicine clinic, we’re here to help guide you toward lasting, healthy weight loss with the latest tools and expert support.
If you’re interested in a weight-loss program and want to schedule a free, 10-minute consultation or an appointment with our obesity medicine board-certified doctor, book one below.
