Estimating body fat by using bioelectrical-impedance measurements: a preliminary assessment.

Martin G. Raphael; H.J. Harlow; S.W. Buskirk

doi:10.2737/PNW-GTR-279

Treesearch

Estimating body fat by using bioelectrical-impedance measurements: a preliminary assessment.

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Martin G. Raphael, H.J. Harlow, S.W. Buskirk

Year:

1991

Type:

General Technical Report

Station:

Pacific Northwest Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2737/PNW-GTR-279

Source:

Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-279. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station.

Download (PDF 2.22 MB)

Download (PDF 2.22 MB): https://research.fs.usda.gov/download/treesearch/9005.pdf

Abstract

We evaluated a technique for measuring body fat content of marten (Martes americana) by using a noninvasive bioelectrical-impedance device with four electrodes to introduce a current into the body. Instantaneous readings of resistance were significantly correlated with fat-free mass (determined from solvent extraction) of carcasses of 17 skinned (r = 0.83, P = 0.01) and 6 intact (r = 0.89, P = 0.03) marten. Estimates of percentage of body fat were not accurate among skinned animals but were accurate among unskinned animals. With further refinement, this technique may be useful because the device is noninjurious, easily used, quick,and portable.

Keywords

Body composition, body fat, fat-free mass, marten, Martes americana, Wyoming

Citation

Raphael, M.G.; Harlow, H.J.; Buskirk, S.W. 1991. Estimating body fat by using bioelectrical-impedance measurements: a preliminary assessment. Gen. Tech. Rep. PNW-GTR-279. Portland, OR: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Northwest Research Station.