ECAL Test Preparation & Medical Advice
We care about reliable and consitent results!
PREPARATION: Follow this pre-test protocol to ensure you're getting the most accurate measurements each time…
In the 12 hours before your test:
DO NOT consume alcohol or illicit drugs
DO NOT exercise or perform physically strenuous activity
DO take prescribed medications as normal.
In the 4 hours before your test:
DO NOT consume any foods or fluids, except water (Fast for between 4 & 12 hours). If on insulin, adjust accordingly.
DO NOT consume or use stimulants (caffeine, pre-workout supplements, nicotine).
DO NOT have saunas or hot baths/showers for 4 hours before testing.
DO NOT have cryotherapy or cold baths/showers for 4 hours before testing.
DO take prescribed medications as normal.
DO drink water as normal.
(If you might also have an InBody Scan at the same appointment, MINIMISE water intake for the final 2 hours preceding your appointment).
At the TIME of your test:
ARRIVE 5 minutes before the scheduled time of your appointment.
WEAR minimal comfortable clothing (such as basic gym-gear).
You will need to sit comfortably in a relaxed, reclined position for up to 10 minutes while testing.
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 that 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 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.