DEXA Scans: The New Tool for Health and Longevity

DEXA scans, short for dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, are gaining popularity as a tool for those interested in health and longevity. These scans measure various aspects of body composition, including fat and lean mass distribution, bone mineral density, and more, providing detailed insights into an individual's physical state.

Dave McGinn, a reporter, describes his experience with a DEXA scan at Push Pounds Sports Medicine in Toronto. The scan provided him with extensive data about his body, which can be motivational for people aiming to track and improve their health. Dr. Amir Majidi, the clinic owner, notes the scan’s precision in assessing body composition, making it valuable for athletes and anyone interested in optimizing their health.

However, experts like Stuart Phillips and Leigh Gabel highlight that while DEXA scans offer valuable data, they don't cover all aspects of health, such as cardiovascular fitness or social well-being. Dr. Majidi advises against becoming overly fixated on the numbers. Despite this, McGinn finds himself tempted to use the detailed feedback from the scan to make lifestyle changes and plans to return for another scan to track his progress.

‍

Work Cited:

Photo by MART RODUCTION: https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-woman-sitting-technology-7089401/

McGinn, D. (2024, June 3). Dexa scans are helping people ‘gamify’ their health and longevity. The Globe and Mail. https://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/article-dexa-scan-helping-people-gamify-health-and-longevity/

‍