Understanding how it works
To use your scale correctly, you must first understand how it works.
The iHealth Nexus Fit and the iHealth Nexus Pro scales are just that, scales. They are only able to measure weight. But, the Nexus scales can measure the smallest weight changes with four high-sensitivity G-shaped sensors. So the Nexus can give highly precise measurement of up to 0.2 lbs.
In addition, the scales are equipped to use the bioimpedance method to measure resistance. By using advanced conductive Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) coating to determine the hindrance of electrical flow through the body, the scales calculate the total body water. From the total body water, weight and using the data that you provide in your user profile in the iHealth MyVitals app, it can estimate the 10 data points.
The MyVitals app is required to get the data points, but the information that you provide in your profile makes a difference. The data points that are used in some of the calculations include gender, birth date, height, weight, athlete and activity level. All of these data points should be as accurate as possible to get the best results.
What are the data points and how are they calculated?
BMI
Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure of your fitness level based on both your height and weight. This is calculated as weight (kg) divided by height squared (m²). The higher the BMI, the more likely you are to develop associated health problems, though this is not a complete view of your health and fitness.
Body Fat
Body Fat Percentage (BFP) is a percentage measurement of your fitness level based only on your weight. This is calculated as the body fat weight divided by the total body weight. The higher the body fat percentage, the more likely you are to develop associated health problems, though this is not a complete view of your health and fitness.
Muscle Mass
Muscle Mass refers to your total muscle weight. The muscle mass displayed includes the skeletal muscles and smooth muscles (such as cardiac and digestive muscles) as well as the water contained in them. The more muscle you build, the more calories your body will naturally burn.
Body Water
Body Water Percentage (BWP) is a percentage measurement of the total amount of fluid in your body. The higher your body water percentage, the less likely you are to develop associated health problems, though this is not a complete view of your health and fitness.
Lean Body Mass
Lean Body Mass (LBM) is the difference between the total body weight and body fat weight. This part of body composition is calculated by subtracting body fat from the total body weight. The higher the lean body mass, the less likely you are to develop associated health problems, though this is not a complete view of your health and fitness.
Bone Mass
Bone Mass is the amount of bone mineral in the body. The lower the bone mass, the more likely you are to develop associated health problems, though this is not a complete view of your health and fitness.
Protein
Protein is an important component of muscle development. Protein percentage indicates the percentage of your body weight that is lean protein. A lack of protein can lead to decreased immunity, muscle weakness, and anemia.
Visceral Fat
Visceral Fat is a type of body fat that's stored within the abdominal cavity. The more visceral fat your body carries, the more likely you are to develop associated health problems, though this is not a complete view of your health and fitness.
BMR
Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) is the minimum level of energy your body needs to function effectively while at rest. Individuals who exercise regularly tend to have a higher basal metabolic rate than people who are less active.
Metabolic Age
Metabolic Age is calculated by comparing your basal metabolic rate (BMR) with the average basal metabolic rate of your age group. Increasing the amount or intensity of your exercise will build healthier muscle tissues and can improve your metabolic age.
Heart Rate
In addition, the Nexus Pro also detects and records heart rate through the ITO coating while connected to the app.