👉The One Test Every Woman Over 40 Needs


Weekly Check In

Wednesday June 4th

Hey Reader!

Let’s talk about a test that most women in their 40s and 50s aren’t getting—but absolutely should.

👉 It’s called a DEXA scan, and it measures your bone density, muscle mass, and fat distribution—aka your midlife health blueprint.

When I worked as a physician assistant in primary care a Dexa scan was only covered for the following patients:

  • Women over 65
  • Those with a diagnosis of osteopenia or osteoporosis
  • Women were postmenopausal and with risk factors such as low body weight, family history
  • Taking certain medications like corticosteroids or others that cause bone loss
  • Those who have experiences a fracture with minimal trauma

That is crazy to me because by the time most women are getting this test, the damage has already been done.

It is my opinion that all women in their 40s and beyond should get a Dexa scan.

Here’s why it matters:

  • Up to 20% of bone mass is lost in the 5–7 years after menopause
  • You can’t feel bone loss happening—it’s silent
  • Many women focus on weight loss instead of muscle gain and bone strength

A DEXA scan shows you:

  • If you’re at risk for osteopenia or osteoporosis
  • Whether your workouts are helping you build lean muscle
  • How much visceral fat (the dangerous kind) you’re carrying

💥 It’s the difference between guessing and actually knowing what your body needs. Knowledge is power.

I got my first Dexa scan in March, and it was reassuring to know that my diet and exercise regimen were keeping my bones strong. I did not go through my primary care provider and paid out of pocket for this test. The good news is that ii was only $99 and I did not need a referral to get it done.

All women in my 3 and 6-month coaching programs get a Dexa scan initially and every 3 months while working with me so we can track bone density, muscle mass and body fat percent. This allows me to make adjustments to my client's workout programs and nutrition plans.

Check out my most recent blog post where I talk all about Dexa scans.

Let me know if you have any questions on this and I encourage you to look into getting a Dexa scan today!

With strength,
​Courtney​
Menopause Coach | Physician Assistant

P.S. 👉 Want to take your health to the next level? My 1:1 coaching program is open! Click below to learn more and schedule a free call.

P.P.S. I’d love to hear from you—what’s your biggest challenge right now? Reply and let me know!

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Courtney Prasch

I am a physician assistant, dietitian, and health coach who provides diet, fitness and health tips and advice for women in their 40s and beyond. I help peri and postmenopausal women meet their health goals through a plant-based/vegan diet, strength training, and stress management through my weekly newsletter, blog posts and coaching programs.

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