During the scan, you'll lie on a table wearing a robe and no jewelry. A scanning arm passes over your body while a second X-ray measures bone, fat, and lean tissue. Afterward, you'll receive a detailed report showing your body composition, bone density, and regional fat distribution.
Individuals looking to prevent bone disease and track muscle/fat loss gains across the body
Individuals who are pregnant or with recent contrast-based imaging (e.g. MRI with dye)
A DEXA scan (also called DXA) is a non-invasive imaging test that uses low-dose X-rays to measure body composition and bone mineral density (BMD) with high accuracy. It’s widely used for early osteoporosis screening and fat and muscle analysis, particularly visceral fat around the body's core and lean mass.
The DEXA scan ultrasound doesn't hurt. The test is non-invasive and simply requires lying still.
For longevity or fitness goals, experts recommend getting a DEXA scan every 6–12 months to track progress or screen bone density.
Yes, you can eat before a DEXA scan, but avoid intense workouts and heavy meals 2 hours before and calcium supplements 24 hours before for the most accurate lean/fat mass readings.
Humanaut Health offers a 4-part DEXA scan of the entire body for $150. Membership plans include regular DEXA scans as part of comprehensive health tracking. Learn more about our membership programs here.