Government Cracks Down on Non-Medical DEXA Scans & What It Means for Athletes
The Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) has announced that the use of Dual-energy X-ray Absorptiometry scans for non-medical purposes - including fitness, wellness, and general body composition testing - is currently not justified under UK radiation regulations.
While DEXA remains permitted for medical use, the government has clarified that using it for:
Fitness tracking
Wellness assessments
General body composition analysis
Recreational sport performance
falls outside the current legal framework.
The DHSC has now launched a public consultation to decide whether non-medical DEXA use should:
Remain restricted
Be allowed only for elite athletes
Be permitted more widely with safeguards
You can read the consultation here: DHSC DEXA Consultation
What Does This Mean?
DEXA scans use low-dose ionising radiation to measure body composition and bone density. Although radiation exposure is low, the government position is that any exposure should have a clear medical justification.
For many people looking to monitor:
Muscle mass
Body fat
Hydration
Training progress
Recovery
there are effective alternatives available that do not involve radiation exposure.
DEXA scans use low-dose ionising radiation to measure body composition and bone density.
How We Can Help
At True Food, we use the InBody 770 to provide detailed body composition analysis safely, quickly, and without radiation.
The InBody770 provides insights into:
Muscle mass
Body fat percentage
Hydration
Visceral fat
Segmental muscle balance
Recovery and training trends
This makes it an excellent option for:
Athletes
Sports teams
Fat loss goals
Muscle gain
General health monitoring
Workplace wellbeing
Why This Matters
The new DEXA update highlights a growing focus on safe, evidence-based approaches to body composition monitoring.
For most people, regular tracking with a non-invasive tool like the InBody770 provides practical and useful insights without the need for radiation exposure.
At True Food, we continue to support athletes and clients with expert interpretation, practical nutrition guidance, and reliable body composition monitoring tailored to performance, health, and long-term wellbeing.
