Biomarker Assessment

A healthy body composition (proper muscle-to-fat ratio) has been associated with longevity and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and other chronic health conditions. A growing percentage of Canadians have an “altered” or unhealthy body composition (excess fat) that increases the risk of Type 2 Diabetes, hormonal conditions and cardiovascular disease. A comprehensive health program should include body composition testing (fat and lean tissue ratio) because thin doesn’t necessarily mean healthy if you are losing muscle and retaining unhealthy fat. Loss of muscle reduces the ability to burn calories, making it much more difficult to maintain fat loss over time. An imbalance in body composition (gaining too much fat or losing too much muscle) can also lead to serious health problems.

Who should have an assessment?

Everyone. The test is important for monitoring general health, following the progress of a diet and exercise regime, and for assessing the progression of disease or recovery. It’s a useful tool for screening obesity, cardiovascular disease and Type 2 diabetes. Even athletes find the information useful to fine tune their diet and exercise programs. Biomarker machines are the gold standard of testing equipment at anti-aging and longevity facilities throughout North America.

What does it measure?

The Biomarker diagnostic instrument measures your body composition, including lean body mass, fat mass, basal metabolism, and Body Mass Index (BMI), an index of your overall health risk for degenerative disease. In addition, by determining the ability of your cells to store energy and the permeability of cell membranes, the test provides an overall measure of your cellular health. This is an excellent biological marker that provides a consistent measure regardless of whether you are maintaining, increasing or decreasing your weight.

How does it work?

It measures the electrical properties (conductance and resistance) of different tissues in your body. For example, fat resists electricity but blood cells do not. The system is highly accurate and the results are repeatable because the whole body is measured. Small electrodes are attached to your hand and foot, while the Biomarker calculates your results. The total time for the assessment is only 10 minutes and it’s completely painless.

How do I prepare for the test?

Do not exercise, take a sauna, drink alcohol, caffeine or other stimulants that may affect your body fluid levels and metabolism eight hours prior to your testing.