Evaluation of multi‐frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis for the assessment of body composition in individuals with obesity

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to compare body composition measurements estimated by multi‐frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (MF‐BIA) with air displacement plethysmography (ADP) in individuals with obesity. METHODS: Bariatric patients were recruited from Geisinger's Center for Nutrition and Weight Management Clinic in Danville, Pennsylvania. Sixty‐two participants (age = 52.4 ± 9.3 years; body mass index = 38.9 ± 8.0 kg m(−2)) reported for a same‐day testing visit. Body composition was measured using a common MF‐BIA analyzer (InBody 720, Biospace Co., Beverly Hills, CA) and ADP. RESULTS: Strong relationships were observed between MF‐BIA and ADP methods (r = 0.88–0.96, P < 0.001). There were no differences between MF‐BIA and ADP measures of per cent body fat, fat mass or fat‐free mass for the total sample or when examined by gender. CONCLUSIONS: The InBody 720 MF‐BIA analyzer produced body composition measurements that were similar to ADP supporting the use of this technology in the obese population.