Use of magnetic resonance in body composition studies: Applications to research on caloric restriction and exercise

Applications of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spe ctroscopy (MRS) in studies of body composition are discussed. MRI is an acc urate method for volume quantification of lean and adipose tissue in the hu man body, while MRS is used to study in, vivo metabolism of soft tissues. I n particular, combination of MRI and phosphorus (P-31) MRS, used to asses m uscle energy metabolism, may be of great importance in body composition stu dies. Examples of use of MRI and P-31 MRS in studying the Effect of caloric restriction on body composition and skeletal muscle metabolism are given.