WHAT IT IS
What is a DEXA scan?
A DEXA scan (Dual-Energy X-ray Absorptiometry) is one of the most accurate methods available for analysing body fat distribution, lean muscle mass, visceral fat and bone density. At Miller Health, DEXA imaging is used as part of a structured diagnostic assessment, not a fitness gadget or handheld scanner, but clinical imaging used in medical practice to measure body composition with high precision.
WHAT IT MEASURES
Four measurements that matter
Visceral fat
Fat around the internal organs, strongly linked to cardiovascular disease, insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. The single most valuable metric for executives concerned about long-term risk.
Lean muscle mass
Lean tissue by region, identifying imbalances, training adaptations and age-related muscle decline, useful when tracking progress or weight loss.
Regional fat distribution
Abdominal, limb and trunk composition, distinguishing healthy
weight loss from muscle loss, which scales cannot detect.
Bone density
The gold-standard measure of bone mineral density, valuable
for athletes, ageing professionals and those with hormonal
concerns.
WHY DEXA
Superior to standard body-fat testing
Commercial body composition tools rely on bioelectrical impedance, influenced by hydration, food intake and recent exercise, so readings fluctuate. DEXA uses low-dose X-ray imaging for far greater precision and reproducibility. For professionals who want reliable data, DEXA provides a clearer picture, and at Miller Health it is interpreted within the Explore assessment alongside blood markers and metabolic data.
WHAT YOU RECEIVE
Your scan, properly explained
A DEXA reading is only as useful as its interpretation. Every scan at Miller Health comes with a clear written breakdown of your visceral fat, lean mass by region, fat distribution and bone density, benchmarked against what is healthy for your age and build, and a plain-English explanation of what each number means for your risk and your goals. When you repeat the scan, we track the change so progress, or drift, is measured rather than assumed.
WHO IT IS FOR
Designed for
Men concerned about visceral fat and long-term cardiometabolic risk
Those losing weight who want to protect muscle and confirm it is fat they are losing
Anyone whose scale weight and mirror disagree with how they feel
Athletes and trainers tracking composition change with precision
Men with hormonal or bone-health concerns who need a true baseline
QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
How long does a DEXA scan take?
The scan itself usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes. You lie still and fully clothed, with no enclosed tunnel.
Is a DEXA scan safe?
DEXA uses very low levels of radiation, significantly lower than many standard medical imaging procedures and a fraction of a transatlantic flight.
How should I prepare?
Wear comfortable clothing without metal, avoid calcium supplements on the day, and ideally arrive well hydrated and not immediately after a large meal or heavy training. We will confirm details when you book.
Can I book just a DEXA scan?
DEXA is typically included within the Executive Health Assessment, where it is interpreted alongside blood markers and metabolic data, far greater clinical value than body composition alone.
Where is testing carried out?
Many individuals repeat DEXA scans every 6 to 12 months to track changes in body composition, sooner during an intensive phase of fat loss or muscle gain.