What is Evolt?
Evolt Body Impedance Analysis (BIA) is a method used to measure body composition by analyzing the electrical impedance of the body. It provides insights into various health metrics, such as body fat percentage, muscle mass, hydration levels, and overall body composition.
Evolt BIA is often used in medical clinics, fitness settings and wellness programs to monitor progress and inform lifestyle changes.
How Evolt Works
Why Body Impedance Analysis (BIA)?
Body Composition Assessment: BIA provides detailed insights into body composition, including fat mass, muscle mass, and water distribution. This information is crucial for understanding overall health beyond just weight.
Tailored Fitness Plans: By understanding an individual's body composition, health and fitness professionals can create more personalized and effective workout and nutrition plans.
Hydration Status: BIA can assess hydration levels, which is important for overall health and athletic performance.
Health Monitoring: Regular BIA can help track changes in body composition over time, which is useful for monitoring the effectiveness of diet and exercise programs.
Health Risk Evaluation: Body fat distribution is linked to various health risks. BIA can help identify individuals at higher risk for conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
Motivation: Seeing changes in body composition can motivate individuals to maintain healthy lifestyle choices.
BMI no longer the gold standard (never was!)
BMI only looks at two categories: height and weight. It does not distinguish between fat and muscle, therefore two individuals with the same BMI can have very different body compositions, with one being muscular and the other having a higher body fat percentage. The simplicity of the BMI calculations can lead to misinterpretation of health. Therefore, relying solely on BMI may overlook other important health indicators.
Key Markers of Evolt
#1 Adipose Tissue
Subcutaneous Tissue
In terms of total adipose tissue (fat cells), about 80-90% is subcutaneous, meaning it tends to develop just beneath the skin. The subcutaneous fat is further categorized into superficial and deep layers, with the deep layer expanding in cases of obesity and showing a stronger correlation with cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance related to obesity.
Visceral Tissue
This fat is stored deep in the abdomen, surrounding organs like the liver, stomach, and intestines. Visceral fat is much more concerning than subcutaneous fat, and it's not the fat you can see!
Why do we care about this? High levels of visceral fat are associated with an increased risk of various health issues, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. This is partly because visceral fat releases inflammatory substances called cytokines, which can trigger inflammation throughout the body affecting various organ systems. Visceral fat will make it harder for your body to utilize glucose, driving up sugars in the body, which are inflammatory and can lead to disease and diabetes. Visceral fat will constrict blood vessels, leading to high blood pressure. Visceral fat can also contribute to abnormal cholesterol levels, increasing risk of cardiovascular heart disease.
#2 Lean Mass
Lean mass refers to the total weight of everything in your body except fat. This includes muscles, bones, organs, blood, and connective tissues. Muscle tissue is metabolically active, burning more calories at rest compared to fat tissue, which contributes to a higher basal metabolic rate. Greater lean mass often correlates with improved strength, endurance, and overall athletic performance.
Maintaining or increasing lean mass is crucial for effective weight management, reducing the risk of chronic diseases, and enhancing functional capacity as we age. For those looking to lose weight or improve fitness, prioritizing the preservation or increase of lean mass becomes an essential aspect of their body composition goals.
#3 Macros
Once you have completed the scan, it computes macros based on your data and goal (goal options are: fat loss, muscle gain or overall health maintenance). Macronutrients, commonly referred to as "macros," are essential nutrients that the body needs in large amounts to function properly. Macros include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, each serving unique and vital roles in overall health and wellness. Fat loss typically involves consuming fewer calories and increasing protein intake, which can help you feel fuller and stabilizes blood sugar levels as well.
#4 ICF/ECF
Intracellular Fluid (ICF), refers to the fluid contained within the cells of the body. ICF represents a significant portion of total body water, playing a crucial role in cellular function by aiding in nutrient transport, waste removal, and maintaining cellular homeostasis.
Monitoring ICF provides valuable insights into hydration status, cellular health, and overall body composition, as changes in ICF levels can indicate issues like dehydration or electrolyte imbalances.
Extracellular Fluid (ECF), refers to the fluid found outside the cells in the body and plays a critical role in transporting nutrients, waste products, and signaling molecules. Monitoring ECF levels can provide valuable insights into hydration status and overall health, as changes may indicate fluid retention, dehydration, or imbalances affecting bodily functions.
