Practical Skills in Nutritional Anthropometry
Expert-defined terms from the Advanced Certificate in Nutritional Anthropometry course at London School of Business and Administration. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
**Anthropometry #
** The scientific measurement of the human body, including dimensions, proportions, composition, and physiological functions. In the context of nutrition, anthropometry focuses on the assessment of body composition, health status, and nutritional status using various measurement techniques.
**Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) #
** A non-invasive method used to estimate body composition, particularly body fat and lean body mass. BIA measures the opposition of body tissues to the flow of an electrical current. Related terms: resistance, reactance, phase angle, impedance.
Circumference Measurements #
The measurement of body girths using a flexible tape measure to assess body proportions, health status, and nutritional status. Commonly measured circumferences include waist, hip, mid-upper arm, and calf. Related terms: waist-to-hip ratio, mid-upper arm muscle circumference.
Dual #
Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DXA): A non-invasive technique that uses low-dose X-rays to measure bone mineral density, body composition, and fat distribution. DXA can provide detailed information about regional body fat distribution and is considered the gold standard for body composition assessment. Related terms: bone mineral density, total body fat, visceral adipose tissue.
Energy Expenditure #
The amount of energy required to maintain bodily functions, physical activity, and growth. Energy expenditure can be measured using indirect calorimetry, doubly labeled water, or activity monitoring. Related terms: basal metabolic rate, physical activity level, total energy expenditure.
Fat Mass #
The total amount of fat in the body, including essential fat (needed for normal bodily functions) and storage fat (stored energy). Fat mass can be estimated using various techniques, such as BIA, DXA, or skinfold thickness measurements. Related terms: body fat percentage, fat-free mass.
Handgrip Strength #
A measure of upper body strength and muscle function, typically assessed using a handheld dynamometer. Handgrip strength is an indicator of overall health, functional capacity, and nutritional status. Related terms: sarcopenia, frailty.
Hydration Status #
The balance between water intake and water loss in the body, which can be assessed using various methods such as urine specific gravity, bioelectrical impedance analysis, or serum osmolality. Related terms: dehydration, overhydration.
Infant Anthropometry #
The measurement of body dimensions and proportions in infants and young children, including head circumference, length, weight, and skinfold thickness. These measurements are used to assess growth, health status, and nutritional status. Related terms: weight-for-length, head circumference-for-age.
Malnutrition #
A condition resulting from insufficient or excessive nutrient intake, which can lead to impaired growth, development, and health status. Malnutrition can be classified as undernutrition, overnutrition, or micronutrient deficiencies. Related terms: wasting, stunting, obesity.
Mid #
Upper Arm Muscle Circumference (MUAMC): A measure of muscle mass and nutritional status in the upper arm, calculated from mid-upper arm circumference and triceps skinfold thickness measurements. Related terms: muscle mass, nutritional status.
Nutritional Status #
The condition of the body in relation to the intake and utilization of nutrients, which can be assessed using various anthropometric measurements and biochemical tests. Related terms: health status, growth status.
Ponderal Index #
A measure of body proportionality, calculated as weight (kg) divided by height (m) cubed. The ponderal index is used to assess health status and nutritional status in infants and children. Related terms: body mass index, weight-for-height.
Skinfold Thickness Measurements #
The measurement of subcutaneous fat thickness using calipers at specific sites on the body, such as the triceps, biceps, subscapular, and suprailiac regions. Skinfold thickness measurements are used to estimate body fat percentage and health status. Related terms: sum of skinfolds, triceps skinfold thickness.
Waist #
to-Hip Ratio: A measure of body fat distribution, calculated as waist circumference divided by hip circumference. The waist-to-hip ratio is used to assess health status and nutritional status, particularly the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. Related terms: central obesity, visceral adiposity.
Weight #
for-Height: A measure of nutritional status in infants and children, calculated as weight (kg) divided by height (m) squared. Weight-for-height is used to assess health status and nutritional status in infants and children. Related terms: underweight, overweight, stunting.
This glossary provides a comprehensive overview of key terms and concepts relate… #
Each term is defined clearly and concisely, and related terms are provided for context and additional information. Examples, practical applications, and challenges are integrated into the definitions where appropriate to enhance understanding and applicability. This glossary is intended to serve as a valuable resource for learners in the Advanced Certificate in Nutritional Anthropometry course, providing a solid foundation for mastering the practical skills necessary for assessing nutritional status and health in diverse populations.