How body fat scale works?

A body fat scale works by using a technology called bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA). Here's a step - by - step explanation of how it works:

1.Electrical signal transmission: The scale sends a weak electrical current through the body. This current is safe and imperceptible to the user. It typically travels through the limbs, as the body is a conductor of electricity.

2.Impedance measurement: As the electrical current passes through the body, it encounters different types of tissues. Fat, muscle, bone, and water all have different electrical resistances or impedances. Fat tissue has a higher impedance than muscle tissue because it contains less water and electrolytes, which are good conductors of electricity. Muscle tissue, on the other hand, has a lower impedance due to its higher water and electrolyte content.

3.Calculation of body fat percentage: The scale measures the impedance of the electrical current as it passes through the body. Using a mathematical formula that takes into account factors such as the user's height, weight, age, and gender, the scale estimates the amount of fat, muscle, and other components in the body. These formulas are based on established relationships between body composition and electrical impedance that have been determined through research and calibration.

4.Display of results: The scale then displays the calculated body fat percentage and sometimes other related information such as muscle mass, water content, and bone density on a digital screen. This provides the user with an estimate of their body composition.

It's important to note that while body fat scales can provide a useful estimate of body fat percentage, they are not as accurate as more sophisticated methods such as dual - energy X - ray absorptiometry (DXA) or hydrostatic weighing. Factors such as hydration levels, recent exercise, food intake, and the time of day can affect the accuracy of the readings.