Near Infrared Interactance (NIR)
66
Definition
This method is based on the principles of light absorption, reflectance, and near infrared spectroscopy.
Equipment Used
- Computerized spectrophotometer
- Digital scanner
- Probe
How it Works
An infrared light is emitted onto an anatomical site, most commonly the biceps. The light passes through both fat and muscle and is reflected back. The beam is then analyzed and data is entered into a formula to produce a body fat percentage (BF%).
Disadvantages
Advantages
- Safe
- Non-invasive
- Cheap
- Fast
Accuracy
Plus or Minus 4% based on the Underwater Weighing method.
Other Methods for Testing Body Fat
- Bioelectrical Impedance Analyzer (BIA)
This method measures electrical signals as they pass through the fat, lean mass, and water in the body. An undetectably low voltage is sent into the body usually via hands (handheld device) or feet (scale).... - Bod Pod (Air Displacement)
An air displacement plethysmography method that measures a person’s total body density (Db) by using the ratio of body mass to body volume (BV).Along with water displacement, air displacement is a form of... - Computed Tomography
A medical imaging method employing tomography. Also known as a CAT scan You lay on a CAT table Your arms will be raised above your head. After proper positioning, the technologist will move to the... - Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DEXA)
This method is a three component model used to measure bone minerals, body fat, and muscle. How it Works A person lays on an x-ray table while two lose x-rays, one overhead and another underneath;... - Height and Circumference Measurements
This method uses a person’s height and circumference measurements of different body parts. Thus making this an Anthropometric method. Measure a person’s height and circumferences of different... - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Is primarily a medical imaging technique most commonly used in radiology to visualize the structure and function of the body. Radiofrequency fields are used to... - Skinfold Measurements
A method that measures the thickness of a skinfold to get an estimate of body fat percent (BF%). The measurer typically uses the right side of a person’s body to measure from 3 to 9 different anatomical...
