Why is an InBody body composition test necessary? Isn't losing weight alone enough to call a diet successful?
An InBody test uses bioelectrical impedance analysis to measure body composition by sending microcurrents through the body. Relying solely on weight can lead to 'false dieting,' where you lose water and muscle instead of fat. Since fat offers high resistance and muscle low, this test calculates the ratio of body fat to skeletal muscle mass, providing a clearer indicator of your actual metabolic state rather than just your weight.
Many patients feel anxious before an InBody test—I’ve even felt the urge to visit the restroom one last time just to be safe! The principle is simple: it sends a microcurrent through the body. Muscle, rich in water, conducts electricity well, whereas fat acts as an insulator. By measuring this resistance (impedance), we can calculate exactly how much fat has accumulated. In Traditional Korean Medicine (TKM), we view these metrics as a mirror of 'Spleen Deficiency (Biheo)' and 'Phlegm-fluid (Damyum).' When Spleen function is weak, the circulation of Qi and Blood is blocked, allowing metabolic waste known as Phlegm-fluid to accumulate, which manifests as body fat. Those prone to edema may see fluctuations due to 'Water Toxicity (Sudok).' If you simply starve yourself, you may lose muscle—the vessel that holds your vital energy—while fat remains stubborn. InBody is a diagnostic tool to ensure we are purging waste while preserving your structural foundation. Rather than being swayed by daily fluctuations, let's focus on whether your metabolism is returning to its healthy, natural rhythm.
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