Bio Electrical Impedance Scales? Do they work?

Have you ever wondered how a bio electrical impedance scale measures body composition? Is it accurate? This type of device (pictured in this post) estimates body fat % by sending a non-susceptible electric current through your body and measures the amount of opposition/resistance the current receives. The electric current travels more freely through muscle than fat, so theoretically, the faster the current travels through your body, the less body fat you have. However, readings on these devices fluctuate a lot based on how well hydrated you are. Water conducts electricity really well, so the more hydrated you are, the faster the electricity will flow, and the lower your body fat % reading will be. If you have one of these scales try calculating your body fat % right when you wake up (usually a low hydration period) and again sometime during the day (after drinking your recommended amount of water). You’ll most likely get a higher body fat reading in the morning than the afternoon. A more accurate method that I use with clients is the skin fold method. Learn more here