Current Methods of Human Body Composition Assessment

ABSTRACT

The present study reviews recently developed and commonly used methods for determination of body composition in vivo with relevance for nutritional assessment. Body composition measurement methods are continuously being improved, with the most commonly used methods being bioelectrical impedance analysis, dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging or magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Recent developments include three-dimensional photonic scanning, quantitative magnetic resonance, and air displacement plethysmography. Collectively, these techniques allow for the measurement of fat, fat-free mass, bone mineral content, total body water, extracellular water, total adipose tissue and its subdepots (visceral, subcutaneous, and intermuscular), skeletal muscle, select organs, and ectopic fat depots.