Evaluation of multi‐frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis for the assessment of body composition in individuals with obesity

Abstract

Summary Objective The purpose of this study was to compare body composition measurements estimated by multi‐frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (MF‐BIA) with air displacement plethysmography (ADP) in individuals with obesity. Methods Bariatric patients were recruited from Geisinger's Center for Nutrition and Weight Management Clinic in Danville, Pennsylvania. Sixty‐two participants (age = 52.4 ± 9.3 years; body mass index = 38.9 ± 8.0 kg m −2 ) reported for a same‐day testing visit. Body composition was measured using a common MF‐BIA analyzer (InBody 720, Biospace Co., Beverly Hills, CA) and ADP. Results Strong relationships were observed between MF‐BIA and ADP methods ( r = 0.88–0.96, P < 0.001). There were no differences between MF‐BIA and ADP measures of per cent body fat, fat mass or fat‐free mass for the total sample or when examined by gender. Conclusions The InBody 720 MF‐BIA analyzer produced body composition measurements that were similar to ADP supporting the use of this technology in the obese population.