Body composition. Body composition was assessed via a
portable multifrequency digital bioelectrical impedance device
(Handy 3000; DS Medica, Milano, Italy).15 With this
device, all measurements and collected data can be stored
and immediately recovered. Results of total body analyses
are expressed as absolute and percentages of body mass
values. Among the principal measures that can be determined
with this device, fat mass percentage and total body
water percentage were take into account for the analysis.
Patients were instructed to prepare for the bioelectrical
impedance analysis by fasting for 4 hours, abstaining from
physical activity for 12 hours, abstaining from alcohol and
diuretics (unless prescribed) for 48 hours, being well hydrated
(water only), and voiding before assessment.