Bioimpedance
Bioimpedance
Bioimpedance: what is it, how much does it cost and is it worth doing?
What is bioimpedance? This is a very common question asked by patients in the offices of nutritionists, nutrologists and even gym students.
To clear up this doubt, it’s important to understand that bioimpedance is a test that uses technology to analyze body composition in detail and not just weight. It provides very precise information on details of the patient’s body, such as:
- Amount of body water.
- Muscle mass.
- Fat mass.
- Visceral fat.
- Bone density.
- Basal metabolism rate.
Unlike an ordinary scale, the bioimpedance scale performs a highly technological test. It sends an imperceptible electric current through the body to measure tissue resistance and generate accurate results. This method is painless and safe, even for the elderly and children.
In addition, bioimpedance can assess the percentage of fat in different parts of the body, such as the upper limbs, abdomen and lower limbs.
It is important to emphasize that bioimpedance assessment is not limited to weight alone and is an incomparable tool when prescribed and applied correctly.
For these and other reasons, bioimpedance is a test widely used in gyms and nutrition-related consultations, and is carried out using a bioimpedance scale.
The best-known brands are Inbody, Tanita and Omron, which use metal plates to conduct a mild electric current through the body and thus measure the patient’s body composition.
It also provides complex and extremely useful information to strengthen health care, guide diagnoses, diets, training and the adoption of healthy habits.
This data is essential for prescribing diets, training adjustments and clinical follow-up. This is why bioimpedance has become an essential tool for nutritionists in São Paulo.
The test can be especially useful for those looking to start physical activities, lose weight and, above all, monitor their progress. This is because it provides precise information on body composition, body mass and the percentage of accumulated fat.
Bioimpedance or BMI: which is better?
O Body Mass Index (BMI) is still widely used as a reference for classifying people’s weight. However, it has important limitations because it doesn’t take body composition into account. Two people with the same BMI can have completely different percentages of fat and muscle mass.
Bioimpedance, on the other hand, provides a much more detailed view and is able to identify:
- Body fat distribution.
- Segmented muscle mass.
- Risks associated with visceral fat.
- Fluid retention.
- Changes in basal metabolism.
Therefore, for those looking for more effective monitoring, bioimpedance is better than traditional BMI. The test allows for precise monitoring of both weight loss and mass gain programs.
Tip: For even more complete results, look for a qualified nutrition professional who will carry out the bioimpedance test with individualized interpretation.
How does bioimpedance work?
As you’ve already seen, the bioimpedance test is super effective in assessing body composition, analyzing the percentage of fat, muscle, bone and water in the body with great precision.
To do this, it uses an imperceptible electric current, which is sent to the patient’s body through metal plates contained in the device.
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Electricity passes differently through each type of tissue in the body. That is, quickly in tissues with a lot of water, such as muscles, and more slowly in fat and bones, for example.
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The difference between the resistance of the body’s tissues defines the speed at which electricity passes through them, thus enabling the device to calculate very approximate percentage values for each tissue.
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The patient, wearing light clothing, climbs barefoot onto a bioimpedance scale and holds the scale’s metal plate in front of their body. In just a few seconds, the device takes the entire body measurement.
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It is worth noting that this is a completely painless, non-invasive test, meaning that the patient is unable to feel the electric current.
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The current travels through the body more easily in water-rich tissues, such as muscles, and with more resistance in adipose tissues, such as fat. This allows the device to calculate the exact proportion of the different body components.
Bioimpedance is performed in just a few seconds and is suitable for all ages (except pregnant women and people with pacemakers).
Stages of the exam:
- The patient removes metal objects from the body.
- Stand barefoot on the equipment.
- Hold the electrodes with your hands (if necessary).
- Wait for the result to be finalized and printed.
This procedure can be carried out in person or online. Even in remote consultations, a professional can advise you on how to use a home bioimpedance scale and correctly interpret the data obtained.
Highlight: The interpretation of the results should be done by a qualified professional, such as a Nutritionist in São Paulo, thus guaranteeing a safe and personalized diet plan.
Preparing for the exam
There are basic recommendations that affect the outcome of the test and are essential to guarantee safe results. Disregarding these guidelines could jeopardize the results. The test is not recommended for pregnant women or people with pacemakers.
Before the exam:
Remove any metal objects that the patient carries with them before and during the examination.
Fasting:
Fast from water and food for four hours before the test and empty your bladder before the procedure.
Avoid physical activity:
Avoid physical activity in the 24 hours before the exam.
For those looking for the best experience when carrying out a bioimpedance test in São Paulo, Instituto Medicina em Foco offers in-person services at Rua Frei Caneca, 1380, Consolação – CEP 01307-000, with a comfortable structure and trained staff.
Follow the preparation for the bioimpedance test correctly and maximize the quality of your result.
Bioimpedance test: is it worth doing?
The cost of a bioimpedance test will depend on the quality and complexity of the equipment used, the experience of the professional in charge, the location of the doctor’s office, among other factors.
At Instituto Medicina em Foco, we offer affordable bioimpedance tests in São Paulo, using state-of-the-art bioimpedance scales that are read by experienced nutritionists. The patient also receives a full follow-up before, during and after the test.
How much does it cost? The average price can vary between R$80 and R$200, depending on the type of consultation (individual, group or integrated into weight loss programs). For consultations that involve personalized nutritional guidance, it is possible that the cost of the bioimpedance test is included in the package.
At Instituto Medicina em Foco, the bioimpedance test costs R$100. The price includes detailed analysis by experienced nutritionists and high-precision equipment, guaranteeing reliable results and humanized service in São Paulo.
It’s interesting to note that there are different types of device, some of which are simpler and cheaper and measure less precisely. Others, for more professional use, are able to measure the percentage of body tissue more accurately.
Also, keep in mind that a well-trained professional will take into account your health history, complaints and other medical tests to indicate the best treatment, diet, training, etc. in a personalized way.
Why is it worth doing?
- Precise assessment of body composition, much more complete than BMI.
- It helps you devise personalized nutrition, weight loss or mass gain strategies.
- Regular monitoring of physical progress based on real data.
- A quick, painless procedure with immediate results.
- It can be done either online or in person in São Paulo.
If you are looking for the best cost-effective bioimpedance test in São Paulo, you can count on our team to carry out the assessment with technology and safety.
Who should have a bioimpedance test?
The bioimpedance test is suitable for anyone who wants to better understand their body composition. It can be requested in both clinical and sporting contexts, and is recommended by nutritionists, nutritionists and doctors of different specialties.
Check out the profiles that benefit most from this exam:
- Patients being monitored by a nutritionist or nutritionist:
- Complete assessment for weight loss, mass gain or dietary re-education plans.
- People who want to lose weight in a healthy way:
- The test makes it possible to identify the real proportion of body fat, lean mass and fluid retention.
- Physical activity practitioners:
- Suitable for setting realistic performance, hypertrophy and body fat control goals.
- Bariatric patients or those on obesity programs:
- Helps monitor weight loss and prevents unwanted loss of muscle mass.
- Elderly people at risk of sarcopenia (muscle loss):
- Monitoring with a bioimpedance test helps prevent falls and frailty.
- People with metabolic or chronic diseases:
- Diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia require regular monitoring of body composition.
- Teenagers and young people growing up:
- The test provides important data to guide balanced diets and prevent eating disorders.
The Instituto Medicina em Foco serves all these audiences with online or face-to-face consultations in São Paulo, guiding the patient from the appointment to the final analysis of the results.
Important tip: There is no right age to take care of your body health. If you want to improve your quality of life, the bioimpedance test can be your greatest ally.
Bioimpedance scales: how to choose the best?
Choosing the best bioimpedance scale makes all the difference to the test results. The market offers everything from simple models for home use to more sophisticated ones used in clinics and hospitals. The right choice depends on your objective and how often you intend to take the test.
Criteria for choosing the right scale:
- Data accuracy: clinical scales offer more detailed and reliable data.
- Number of parameters analyzed: visceral fat, muscle mass, metabolic age, among others.
- Connectivity with apps: ideal for those who follow up with an online nutritionist.
- Professional use certification: important for those who carry out examinations in nutrition clinics in São Paulo.
- Technical assistance in Brazil: essential to guarantee maintenance and support.
The best bioimpedance scales on the market:
- InBody: high-precision professional model, used in clinics and hospitals.
- Tanita: a reliable option with portable and clinical versions.
- Omron: widely used in gyms and home assessments.
At Instituto Medicina em Foco, we use state-of-the-art bioimpedance scales, guaranteeing a reliable and safe test. The service can be carried out in face-to-face consultations in São Paulo or with guided support for online consultations.
Final tip: Avoid generic scales without professional validation. A reliable bioimpedance scale is essential to correctly guide your diet plan and workouts.
The importance of bioimpedance in personalized nutrition
The number that appears on the average scale doesn’t tell you everything about your health. That’s why bioimpedance is such a valued tool in personalized nutrition consultations, as it allows for a real analysis of what lies behind your body weight.
More than just losing weight, the aim of a good diet plan is to promote metabolic balance, reduce the risk of chronic diseases and improve quality of life.
Bioimpedance helps with all this by providing essential data on:
- Muscle mass.
- Fat mass.
- Level of visceral fat.
- Fluid retention.
- Basal metabolic rate.
With this data in hand, the nutritionist in São Paulo can adjust the diet plan more precisely, indicate the need for supplementation, change the distribution of macronutrients and monitor the effects of each intervention over time.
Why is bioimpedance the best ally in nutrition?
- Allows weekly interventions based on real data.
- Indicates risks at an early stage.
- It supports the progress of bariatric patients, athletes and people with chronic diseases.
- It generates motivation by showing progress in muscle and fat.
- It facilitates food education with concrete indicators.
At Instituto Medicina em Foco, personalized nutrition plans in São Paulo include bioimpedance as part of routine monitoring.
Bioimpedance in weight loss and performance programs
Bioimpedance has become an essential ally in programs involving healthy weight loss and improved physical performance. Much more than weight control, this test allows you to measure what is really changing in your body – and that makes all the difference for those looking for lasting results.
How bioimpedance helps with effective weight loss:
- Identifies whether weight loss is related to a reduction in fat or muscle mass.
- It allows quick adjustments to the diet and training plan based on real data.
- It helps professionals to set realistic and motivating goals.
- Prevents unwanted effects such as the accordion effect or loss of lean mass.
In physical performance programs, the benefits include:
- Monitoring muscle mass gain and hydration.
- Assessment of metabolic overload and physical exhaustion.
- Optimization of the diet for sports performance, with a focus on macronutrients.
- Precise monitoring for athletes, bodybuilders and post-bariatric patients.
The great thing about bioimpedance is its ability to provide data that really matters: what you lose or gain in fat and muscle. This precise analysis transforms the approach of professionals and generates more security in follow-up.
At Instituto Medicina em Foco, personalized nutrition programs with bioimpedance offer this differential in both online and in-person consultations in São Paulo.
Bioimpedance at different stages of life
Bioimpedance is a versatile test that can be adapted to different profiles and stages of life. Its application goes far beyond slimming and aesthetics: it contributes to more assertive clinical decisions and a significant improvement in health over the years.
Young adults (18 to 35 years old):
- Performance and body composition monitoring for sports activities.
- Prevention of early obesity.
- Evaluation for adjusting diets and supplements.
Adults (35 to 60 years old):
- Control of metabolism and hormonal changes.
- Identification of excessive visceral fat.
- Support for cardiovascular and metabolic health programs.
Elderly (over 60):
- Prevention of sarcopenia (loss of muscle mass).
- Assessment of bone density and risk of falls.
- Food planning focused on maintaining strength and autonomy.
Each age group requires specific care with body composition, which is why monitoring with an in-person or online nutritionist becomes even more important.
Expert tip: The frequency of the bioimpedance test may vary according to your goals, but at all ages it should be used as part of your routine check-up.
Bioimpedance testing is at MEF
If you are looking for the ideal place to carry out your bioimpedance test in São Paulo, the Instituto Medicina em Foco (MEF) is a benchmark in technology, welcoming and accurate results.
We have a complete structure for face-to-face or online services, experienced professionals and state-of-the-art bioimpedance scales. Here, each patient receives an individualized analysis and an action plan focused on health and well-being.
Differentials of the bioimpedance test at Instituto Medicina em Foco:
- Carried out by specialized nutritionists with extensive clinical experience.
- Certified high-precision equipment.
- Humanized service, with a clear explanation of the results.
- Prime location at Rua Frei Caneca, 1380, Consolação, São Paulo – SP – CEP 01307-000.
- Complete support, before, during and after the exam.
Whether you’re embarking on a weight loss journey, improving your training performance or monitoring your health, the MEF bioimpedance test gives you the basis you need for more informed decisions.
📞 Phone/WhatsApp: +55 11 3289-3195
🌐 Website: emfoco.med.br
Book your bioimpedance appointment in São Paulo now, in person or online.
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Bioimpedance in weight loss and performance programs
Bioimpedance has become an essential ally in programs involving healthy weight loss and improved physical performance. Much more than weight control, this test allows you to measure what is really changing in your body – and that makes all the difference for those looking for lasting results.
How bioimpedance helps with effective weight loss:
- Identifies whether weight loss is related to a reduction in fat or muscle mass.
- It allows quick adjustments to the diet and training plan based on real data.
- It helps professionals to set realistic and motivating goals.
- Prevents unwanted effects such as the accordion effect or loss of lean mass.
In physical performance programs, the benefits include:
- Monitoring muscle mass gain and hydration.
- Assessment of metabolic overload and physical exhaustion.
- Optimization of the diet for sports performance, with a focus on macronutrients.
- Precise monitoring for athletes, bodybuilders and post-bariatric patients.
The great thing about bioimpedance is its ability to provide data that really matters: what you lose or gain in fat and muscle. This precise analysis transforms the approach of professionals and generates more security in follow-up.
At Instituto Medicina em Foco, personalized nutrition programs with bioimpedance offer this differential in both online and in-person consultations in São Paulo.
What is bioimpedance and what is it for?
Bioimpedance is a test that assesses body composition, such as fat, muscle and water. It can be used to guide diet plans and personalized workouts.
How much does a bioimpedance test cost in São Paulo?
At Instituto Medicina em Foco, the bioimpedance test costs R$100. The price includes detailed analysis by experienced nutritionists and high-precision equipment, guaranteeing reliable results and humanized service in São Paulo.
What is the best bioimpedance scale for clinical use?
The most recommended are InBody, Tanita and Omron, for their precision and scientific validation in professional environments.
Can bioimpedance be done online?
Yes, with the guidance of an online nutritionist and the use of appropriate scales at home, you can get reliable results.
Can I take the bioimpedance test while fasting?
Yes. Ideally, you should fast for 4 hours, without exercising or consuming stimulating drinks before the test.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Does bioimpedance hurt or harm?
No. The test is painless, safe and non-invasive. It is not suitable for pregnant women or people with pacemakers.
How often should I do a bioimpedance test?
It is recommended to repeat every month or every 2 months, depending on your goals and professional guidance.
Does bioimpedance replace BMI?
Yes, with advantages. It offers a more precise analysis of body health, going beyond the weight and height of the traditional BMI.
Where can I get a bioimpedance test with a nutritionist in São Paulo?
At the Instituto Medicina em Foco, with its modern structure and location at Rua Frei Caneca, 1380 – Consolação – São Paulo/SP.
What is the best test to follow the diet?
Bioimpedance is the best test for monitoring diets, as it shows real gains or losses in fat and muscle.
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