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Preparing for ECAL Tests

We care about reliable and consistent results!

PREPARATION: Follow this pre-test protocol to ensure you're getting the most accurate measurements each time

STOP FOR 12 HOURS BEFORE TEST

  • DON’T consume alcohol or illicit drugs, and avoid caffeine intake for at least 12 hours before your test.
  • DON’T exercise or perform other strenuous physical activity for at least 12 hours before your test.

 

Woman Having a Medical Grade ECAL Metabolic Assessment With Get Scanned in The Scan-Van

STOP FOR 4 HOURS BEFORE TEST

  • DON’T eat or drink anything, except water for between 4 and 12 hours before your test. If on insulin, adjust accordingly.
  • DON’T have hot/cold showers, saunas or ice baths, etc. in the 4 hours before your test.

 

CONTINUE AS NORMAL BEFORE TEST

  • DO (drink water as normal, up to the time of your test, however if booking both ECAL & InBody services, minimise water intake for the final 2 hours before your appointment).
  • DO take prescription medications as normal.

 

What to expect at your appointment: How is an
 ECAL test performed?

ECAL Measures your RESTING Metabolism

Get Scanned uses the ECAL Metabolic Monitor – an Australian designed indirect calorimeter.This methodology is considered the gold-standard, practical method for measuring metabolism.

ECAL is scientifically validated for measuring resting energy production and the data gleaned can assist in designing programs and guiding lifestyles to correct and improve metabolic imbalances.

You will begin the test by sitting still and in a relaxed, reclined position. We will ask you to initially spend a few minutes settling your breaths and practicing breathing into a mouthpiece. When we start the test, we will connect gas sampling lines / tubing to the mouthpiece and the ECAL machine. We also use a soft and comfortable nose clip to ensure all inhaled and expired air is being measured through the mouthpiece.

We will analyse in real-time, each breath throughout the 5-8 minute test to ensure accuracy, and our ECAL machine and software will measure the inspired air/oxygen and compare this to the exhaled air/carbon dioxide. These measurements (and others), allow the ECAL to assess your energy production, mitochondrial efficiency and ratios of fat and carbohydrate utilisation.
Following your test, we will explain the printed report, give you some general / broad advice, and if required or desired prepare a referral for you to take to a dietitian, nutritionist or your medical professional for specific prescriptions.