Metabolic Testing and Body Composition Analysis

At The Kahm Clinic, we specialize in providing advanced Metabolic Testing (MT) and Body Composition Analysis (BCA) to offer a science-backed, objective assessment of nutritional status and energy needs. These evaluations go beyond traditional weight-based metrics, providing a clearer picture of fuel efficiency, energy expenditure, and malnutrition risk. MT/BCA offers insights for a wide range of individuals and use cases, helping guide informed decisions about nutrition and health.

UNDERSTANDING METABOLIC TESTING

Metabolism encompasses the intricate chemical processes that convert food and drink into energy, fueling every heartbeat, breath, and movement. Our Metabolic Testing precisely measures your body’s energy expenditure at rest, known as Resting Energy Expenditure (REE). Utilizing indirect calorimetry, we assess the oxygen you inhale and the carbon dioxide you exhale to determine your metabolic rate. This non-invasive procedure involves relaxing under a lightweight canopy for approximately 20-30 minutes while your breath is analyzed. The insights gained help identify whether your metabolism is within the expected range, slower (hypometabolic), or faster (hypermetabolic), enabling tailored nutritional strategies to meet your unique energy requirements.

BODY COMPOSITION ANALYSIS EXPLAINED

Body Composition Analysis (BCA) offers a detailed look at internal health markers rather than focusing on external appearance. Through bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), a mild electrical current is sent through electrodes placed on the wrist and ankle, measuring resistance and reactance in body tissues. This quick, painless test provides critical insights into:

Tissue Mass – Measures muscle mass, organ tissue, and fat stores, providing data on the body’s overall composition and energy reserves.

Total Body Water – Evaluates hydration levels by distinguishing between intracellular and extracellular water compartments.

Phase Angle – Indicates cellular health and integrity by assessing how well body cells retain energy and function. A higher phase angle suggests strong, well-nourished cells, while a lower phase angle may indicate malnutrition or compromised cellular function.

This comprehensive internal assessment provides a more meaningful evaluation of health than weight or BMI, helping individuals and healthcare providers develop informed nutrition strategies.

SCIENCE-BACKED TESTING FOR PRECISION NUTRITION

At The Kahm Clinic, we prioritize a health-focused, weight-neutral philosophy. Our fuel efficiency and malnutrition assessments provide objective, individualized data without emphasizing body size or weight.

These assessments are valuable in many contexts, including but not limited to:

  • Non-weight-based insights into metabolic function and nutritional status. These assessments can support safe renourishment and help monitor progress throughout recovery.

  • Objective data to support energy availability, muscle development, and recovery. Testing can also help identify risk factors like REDs (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport).

  • Tailor nutritional strategies during or after treatment using precise metabolic and body composition data. These insights can aid in managing fatigue, malabsorption, or other nutrition-related concerns.

  • Supports adults navigating demanding routines or fluctuating energy, and adolescents during critical periods of growth and development. Also helpful for those following plant-based diets. Testing provides individualized data to guide nutrient intake, energy needs, and overall metabolic function.

DISCOVER WHAT YOUR BODY NEEDS

Our experienced team conducts these assessments and provides optional interpretation of results, offering valuable insights for both clients and referring providers.

Ready to gain a clearer understanding of your metabolic function and nutritional status? Schedule your testing appointment today or contact us to learn more about our services.