Definition: Biolectrical impedence analysis (BIA) is a method for estimating body composition, meaning it measures how much of your body weight is fat and how much is nonfat (bone, muscle, body water, organs, and other body tissues). The analysis is relatively simple, fast, and noninvasive.
BIA measures how difficult it is for an electrical current to move through the body. The electrical current is so small that most people cannot feel anything.
The more body fat one has, the harder it is for the electrical current to flow through the body during BIA. The less fat one has, the easier it is for the electrical current to flow through the body. This means your body's fat stops (impedes) this controlled electrical current, allowing the technician to assess your percent body fat.
Also Known As: BIA
Examples: Private clinicians’ offices, health clubs, and hospitals sometimes provide biolectrical impedence analysis.
Learn More: What is Body Composition?
