Why are celebrities getting annual DEXA scans?
DEXA scans were traditionally used to diagnose osteoporosis, but these days they are used to help celebrities elevate their fitness routines.
Are DEXA scans the key to better health and fitness?
Kim Kardashian recently revealed that she regularly goes for DEXA scans.
It's actually a family affair for the star, whose mother, Kris Jenner, and sisters, including Khloé and Kourtney Kardashian, also get the scans.
They hire a "portable DEXA scan guy" to visit their gated community once a year.
"So, we have the van drive by, and we all jump in the van, and you just lie down, and it scans your body for maybe like three minutes," she told Amy Poehler on the 'Good Hang' podcast.
What is a DEXA scan?
DEXA scans are used to check bone density. According to the Cleveland Clinic, "It’s similar to a regular X-ray, but measures the strength and mineral content of your bones instead of just taking pictures of them."
DEXA scans are traditionally used to screen for osteoporosis and osteopenia, conditions that weaken bones. It can lead to complications such as back pain and bone fractures from small injuries. Osteoporosis can also result in height loss.
Why are celebrities getting annual DEXA scans?
Most people get DEXA scans after age 65, but younger people are tracking their bone loss for several reasons.
Kim is one of many stars who have spoken about DEXA scans. Gwyneth Paltrow and sports stars like LeBron James, Conor McGregor and Brian Shaw.
Paltrow actually did her scan in her 30s, and it showed that she had osteopenia, which means she had lower-than-normal bone mineral density.
The actress was able to treat the condition by changing her diet. However, for people like James, McGregor and Shaw, getting a DEXA scan helps optimise their fitness routines.
Aside from checking bone health, DEXA scans can measure the following:
- lean muscle mass
- body fat percentage
- fat and muscle distribution
- Visceral fat
Knowing this data is extremely beneficial to athletes and fitness enthusiasts who want to reach their optimum fitness level. It's not just about weight loss. The data helps athletes prepare for tours or fights by checking if they are gaining muscle and losing fat.
The scans help them assess their risk for potential injuries such as fractures. Athletes can also monitor their injury recovery.
DEXA scans have become part of Hollywood wellness movements, and stars such as Kim are forking over extra money to have their "portable DEXA scan guy" drive to their mansions.
Before you start panicking about your bone density and visceral fat, you don't need to get yearly DEXA scans.
Keep your bones healthy, especially as you age, by following a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Strength training and muscle training are also a good idea. However, some health experts suggest simple exercises like jogging, brisk walking and stair climbing go a long way.
Speak to your doctor if you are concerned about your bone health.
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