When it comes to weight loss, the number on the scale is only one piece of the puzzle. If you’re working hard to get healthier, you deserve to know what’s actually changing in your body—and that’s where a DEXA scan comes in.
What Is a DEXA Scan?
DEXA stands for Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry. It’s a low-dose X-ray that provides a detailed picture of your body composition:
- Fat mass
- Lean (muscle) mass
- Bone density
It’s the most accurate way to see what you’re really losing—or gaining—as your weight changes.
Why Is This Important?
A regular bathroom scale can’t tell the difference between fat, muscle, and water weight. That means:
- You could be losing muscle without knowing it
- You might feel frustrated by a “stalled” scale even when your fat is decreasing
- You could be at risk for bone loss and not know until it’s too late
With DEXA, we can make data-driven decisions about your plan and celebrate the right kind of progress.
How We Use DEXA at Our Clinic
At Eagle Medical Weight Loss, we refer patients to Boise State’s Human Performance Lab for DEXA scans. We typically recommend:
- One baseline scan at the beginning of your journey
- A follow-up scan every 3–6 months to track progress
These scans help us adjust your nutrition, medication, or activity plan to ensure you’re burning fat while preserving strength.
Real Results, Not Just a Number
Your body is more than a number on a scale. You deserve to see the full picture—and DEXA makes that possible. When paired with the right medical plan, it becomes a powerful motivator and guide.