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Aluminum Toxicity and Hair Testing

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One of the most significant exposures of aluminum is through vaccinations. Other exposures include foil, kitchenware, automobile and aircraft industries.Workers who are at risk for toxicity are those in refineries, foundries and also welders and grinders. Persons on dialysis can also have toxicity.

About Aluminum

Aluminum is the third most abundant element after oxygen and silicon. Aluminum is the most abundant metal and constitutes between 8.4 to 14 percent of the earth’s crust. Aluminum is found in plants, soil, water and air. The average person my absorb anywhere from 10 to 100 mg of aluminum every day through aluminum deodorants, cookware, baking soda, antacids, and other environmental sources. Normal excretion through the urine is 15 mcg per day or more.  Most plants have low quantities of aluminum, but a few are known to be aluminum accumulators, including some types of tea plants, grasses and orchids.

Aluminum smelters, coal and oil burning power plants release fine metallic particulates of a sulphate complex type of toxic metals.  These metals are easily absorbed into the blood, intercellular fluids, through the cell walls and even into the nucleus where they can affect the DNA. The gases are converted into aerosols by exposure to the sun, by condensation or by attaching themselves to other particles in the air.

The neurotoxicity of aluminum is increased by intake of other metallic ions such as arsenic, cadmium, iron, lead, manganese, mercury or other toxic metals. A low intake of zinc contributes to retention of many heavy metals as well as a higher sensitivity to their effects.  When aluminum replaced calcium in low amounts in vitro neuron studies, the action potential was blocked, decreasing spontaneous nervous discharge and reducing nervous activity.

Disorders Associated With Aluminum Toxicity can include: Autism, Alzheimer’s Disease, anxiety, conjunctivitis, eczema, upper airway irritation, pneumoconiosis, those under dialysis, neurotoxicity and osteomalacia.

Aluminum Toxicity

• It is estimated that 93% of people tested are high in aluminum toxins!
• No matter how aluminum enters the body, it is dangerous for the brain.  Patients who died of Alzheimers, Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS) and Parkinson’s Disease with dementia have high aluminum and mercury levels.  Aluminum enters into cross-linkage within the body’s proteins and acts to immobilize reactive molecules within the brain cells.
• Aluminum causes free-radical pathology inside neurons. Free radical damage of brain cells brings on molecular cross-linkage throughout the brains tissues.
• Heavy exposure to aluminum toxins through childhood vaccinations is the most profound ways that aluminum toxins enter the bloodstream, brain and other essential organs where it is  not easily removed.
• Aluminum is poisonous to the nervous system.
• High levels of aluminum are associated with insomnia or sleep difficulties, nervousness, emotional instability, memory loss, headaches and impaired intellect.
• Aluminum can stop the body’s ability to digest and make use of calcium, phosphorus and fluoride. This prevents bone growth and reduces bone density.
• Aluminum can also cause conditions which actually force calcium out of the bones, like in fibromyalgia.
• Aluminum brings on weakness and deformation in the bone structure with crippling effects.
• Toxicity can also result in aching muscles, speech problems, anemia, digestive problems, lowered liver function, colic and impaired kidney function.

Aluminum Levels In Vaccines

• Aluminum is used in vaccines as an adjuvant. An adjuvant is a component that boosts the immune response to the injection.  The adjuvant effects of aluminum were discovered in 1926.
• Aluminum adjuvants are used in: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, DT, DTaP, Haemophilus influenzae Type b (HIB-b), and Pneumococcal.
• Aluminum adjuvants are not used in the live, viral shots, such as Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Varicella (Chicken pox) and Rotavirus.
• Aluminum salts, monophosphoryl A (a detoxified bacterial component), and squalene (a compound of the body’s normal cholesterol synthesis pathway) are the only materials that can be used as adjuvants in the United States.

Aluminum In Nursing Infants and Infant Formulas

• Infants receive about 4.4 mg of aluminum in the first six months of life from their pediatric shots.
• Breast-fed infants ingest about 7 mg, formula-fed infants ingest about 380 mg.
• Infants who are fed soy formula ingest almost 117 mg of aluminum during the first six months of life.
• Remember that the body’s way of processing ingested aluminum however, is totally different that INJECTED aluminum.

Aluminum – The Maximum Safe Exposure
Aluminum builds up in the bones and brain and can be toxic. Aluminum can cause neurological harm. Aluminum overdose can be fatal in patients with weak kidney’s or kidney disorders or in premature babies.

Research indicates that patients with impaired kidney function, including premature infants, who receive parenteral (injected) levels of aluminum at greater than 4 to 5 [micro]g/kg/day will accumulate aluminum at levels associated with central nervous system and bone toxicity. Tissue loading may occur at even lower rates of administration.  [https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?fr=201.323]

The following are examples of weight with their corresponding maximum levels of aluminum:

• 8 pound, healthy baby: 18.16 mcg of aluminum
• 15 pound, healthy baby:  34.05 mcg of aluminum
• 30 pound, healthy toddler:  68.1 mcg of aluminum
• 50 pound, healthy child: 113 mcg of aluminum
• 150 pound adult: 340.5 mcg of aluminum
• 350 pound adult: 794.5 mcg of aluminum

This means that for a 6 pound baby, 11-14 mcg would be considered “toxic”.

Common Symptoms of Aluminum Toxicity Include:

• Anemia
• Aversion to meat
• Burning pain in the head relieved by food
• Colic in infants
• Digestion problems
• Dryness of the skin and mucous membranes
• Flatulence
• Headaches
• Heartburn
• Indigestion
• Impaired kidney function
• Loss of memory (later or high toxicity level signs)
• Mental confusion (later or high toxicity level signs)
• Paralytic muscular conditions (later or high toxicity level signs)
• Sleep is light and disturbed
• Speech delays or difficulties
• Tendency for frequent colds
• Ulcers and sores on the tongue

Results of Aluminum Toxicity

• Anxiety, apprehension or uneasiness.
• Arthritic bone growth, spurs, etc.
• Chronic coldness or numbness in the feet
• Easily frightened or alarmed sometimes become overly disturbed and provoked
• Hypersensitivity in general
  • Heightened sensitivity to light or darkness.
  • Abnormal sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures.
  • An aversion to noise, touch, movement, odors, etc.
• Feelings of inferiority, embarrassment or shame.
• Feelings of irritability, agitation or annoyance.
• Irrational outbursts of anger, road rage, bad temper, etc.
• Poor bone growth, because aluminum prevents healing of bones.
• Reduced bone density – it drops typically by 50-60%

Aluminum’s Impact on Children

• Aluminum can get into the brain at any age and is delivered to children through vaccinations, many of which have high levels of aluminum.  Hypersensitive infants appear to be healthy, but when their symptoms are diagnosed as colic, it is most often aluminum toxicity including from vaccinations given or shortly after birth.
• Alzheimer’s disease is understood to have a strong connection to the accumulation of aluminum.
• Aluminum crosses the placenta, which means that infants may be intoxicated even before they are born.
• Aluminum also enters breast milk, so even the nursing infant is at risk; depending upon the level of toxicity in their a mothers diets, these children are born mentally handicapped. Some aluminum toxic babies are born with serious brain disorders that can be directly attributed to the mother’s diet or habits.
• Children with hyperactivity, ADD/ADHD and attention deficits and aggressive behaviors from a very early age have high aluminum.
• As children grow and develop, they become confused about rules and are unable to control themselves. They may use poor judgment and make bad decisions.
• Lack of impulse control in teenagers is very common with aluminum toxicity.

Aluminum, Neurological Disorders and Brain Toxicity

• Symptoms of aluminum toxicity at any age will include memory loss, not just for Alzheimer’s disease.
• The brain can malfunction in any number of ways after being exposed to aluminum.
• Many traumatizing problems are caused by aluminum toxicity.
• Signs of hypersensitivity should not be ignored, they should be invested and the help of a skilled Homeopath for aluminum detox should be used.
• Stop aluminum consumption and stopping all vaccinations is critical for the body to have the chance to detox aluminum.

Symptoms of Aluminum Related To Disorders

• ADD/ADHD
• Anxiety
• Autoimmune diseases as a result from immune dysfunction
• Autism
• Bed-wetting
• Breathing disorders including asthma
• Bowel and urinary dysfunction (incontinence)
• Cardiac complications including congestive heart failure
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or fatigue and extreme exhaustion
• Dyslexia
• Eye disorders
• Ear disorders, including hearing loss
• Fibromyalgia
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome
• Motor tics – involuntary muscle twitches including in PANDAS or PANS-like symptoms
• Muscle weakness
• Organ dysfunction of the pancreas, thyroid including Hashimoto’s, Hypothyroidism, Hyperthyroidism
• Pyroluria
• Parkinson’s Disease or similar symptoms
• Rheumatoid Arthristis and Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JVA)
• Sleep Disorders
• Stuttering

Mental Emotional Symptoms of Aluminum Toxicity

• Anger that is unprovoked including toward people of other faiths
• Criticism or condemnation of those who do not measure up
• Guilt – displaced or unsubstantiated
• Exclusion of others who are not “as spiritual”
• Tolerance of inappropriate criminal behavior
• Perfectionism and unrealistic expectations of self and others
• Violence including offensive acts of violence toward opposition

How To Determine Aluminum Toxicity

• Hair testing – read more here
• Blood testing
• Urine testing

Aluminum is used extensively in various ways:

• Aluminum has permeated mainstream products and it is not possible to avoid exposure.
• Aluminum is found in numerous foods and beverages including fruits and vegetables, beer and wine, seasonings, flour, cereals, nuts, dairy products, baby formulas, and honey. Typically, adults ingest 7 to 9 milligrams of aluminum per day.
• Aluminum is used for manufacturing of airplanes, siding, roofing materials, paints, pigments, fuels and cigarette filters.
• Aluminum is found in health products including antacids, buffered aspirin, antiperspirants and many vaccines.

Aluminum Detoxification Supports

• We use nutritional supplements per the HTMA test as well as homeopathy to gently detox aluminum, mercury and other heavy metals from vaccinations or other accumulations.
• Detoxing requires the balancing the oxidation rate and enhancing the activity of the elimination organs, especially the kidneys and liver.
• It is important to use daily non-toxic chelating agents such as Vitamin C which helps promote the excretion of aluminum from the body through urine.
• Silicea as the homeopathic remedy and the cell salt helps aluminum to be excreted via urine but allows essential metals, such as iron and copper, to stay in the body.  Studies have also shown that drinking silica-rich mineral water each day for 12 weeks helps to remove aluminum from the body. There is evidence that drinking silica-rich mineral water decreases body levels of aluminum in people with Alzheimer’s disease. In some patients, it simultaneously improves cognitive performance to a significant degree.
• Silica has additional health benefits and when taken in the form of choline-stabilized ortho-silicic acid, it stimulates collagen production and connective tissue function and repair. Silicea has been shown to help to increase bone mineral density in osteoporosis and improve the appearance and texture of aging skin, hair and nails. To try this form of silica, follow the recommendations on the BioSil or Regenemax bottle.
• L-theanine which is found in green tea is know to help in alleviate the negative effects of aluminum-induced toxicity in the brains of rats. If you want to take L-theanine, take a 200-mg capsule before bed. If you suffer from anxiety or feel highly stressed, you can also try an additional 200 mg of L-theanine during the day for enhanced relaxation without sedation.
• Green tea extract contains small amounts of L-theanine, along with other important compounds with medicinal effects, such as epigallocatechin gallate and epicatechin. A recent study in rats with high aluminium levels speculated that green tea extract reduces aluminum-induced brain toxicity through its antioxidant effects as well as its ability to improve the functioning of synapses between neurons. Green tea extract and L-theanine may help reverse aluminum toxicity and treat cognitive impairment even better when used in combination. In one recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 91 patients with mild cognitive impairment took 1,680 mg per day of a combination of L-theanine and green tea extract for 16 weeks. The combination  led to improvements in memory and selective attention. Brain theta waves, an indicator of cognitive alertness, were increased significantly for three hours.
• Bacopa monniera is an herbal extract that can protect the brain from aluminum poisoning. Researchers recently discovered that bacopa extract prevents aluminum toxicity in the cerebral cortex of rats. If you want to try bacopa, use the dose most commonly used in human research of 300 to 450 mg per day of an extract standardized to contain 55% bacosides.
• Curcumin is a well-known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound found in turmeric. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is an excellent option for brain protection in anyone with a chronic disease related to inflammation: joint disease, heart disease, diabetes, autoimmune disease, fatigue, depression, cancer, etc.. It will protect the brain against cognitive dysfunction and oxidative damage caused by aluminum poisoning. In one study, rats given aluminum showed poor retention of memory in maze tests and displayed marked signs of oxidative damage within the brain. The rats were given curcumin and significantly improves memory retention, ameliorated the oxidative damage,and reduced aluminum levels in aluminum treated rats. Look for turmeric extracts standardized at 90% to 95% curcumin and take at a dose of 500 mg two or three times daily.
• Malic acid helps to reduce the toxicity of aluminum in the brain. Magnesium malate supplies malic scid and is available in most health food stores. It is found abundantly in fruits such as apples and is also produced in the human body. It is a metabolite of the Krebs cycle the set of biochemical reactions used to produce 90% of all energy in the cells of the body. Malic acid readily crosses the Blood-Brain-Barrier and has been shown to bind to aluminum. It functions in the body by drawing aluminum away from the tubulin enzyme, so that Magnesium can plug into the receptor sites instead. Malic acid’s unique ability to bind with aluminum means it can be flushed out of the body, preventing unwanted build-up.  The aluminum chelation protocol calls for 500 mg of malic acid three times a day for no more than three weeks at a time. We highly recommends that you work with a professional who can monitor your tissue levels and advise you on the protocol. If you believe you may have elevated aluminum levels, ask your doctor for a hair tissue mineral analysis.
• Cilantro accelerates the elimination mercury, lead and aluminum thru the urine.
• Selenium the mineral selenium each help to reduce the toxic effects of aluminum.  Recommended dose is 200 mcg per day. Selenium also chelates mercury in the body.
• Vitamin C and Vitamin E can both help to reduce the toxic effects of aluminum.
• Other nutrient therapies which improve the activity of the liver, kidneys, bowel and the skin can be helpful!
• A healthy, organic diet that high in fruits, vegetables, grass fed red meat, nuts and whole grains is also important.

Other Supports To Detox Aluminum

• Consult a skilled HTMA Practitioner and to a HTMA hair test.
• Here are foods that help aluminum move out of the cells:
  • Apples (green Granny Smith) and it’s pectin helps get rid of aluminum
  • Cilantro herb is a chelator of aluminum and other heavy metals
  • Kelp seaweed – without mercury or other heavy metals (find out where it came from)
  • Lemon juice and pit of lemons or lemon seeds
    On waking: drink lemon always with hot water (2.5 oz)+ 1/2 tsp unpasterized honey for cleansing in the morning. Best time to cleanse is 8 am in the morning
  • Parsley – helps removed mercury form the body
  • Vegetables – kale, broccoli, green and red cabbage have many antioxidants that increase detox enzymes
  • Turmeric helps detox the liver and kidney’s that hold aluminum to help them clear it.  Spice or capsule form.
  • Sulphur rich foods – eggs, fish, onions (fresh not moldy on the onion), garlic (pickled, dried, etc.) will help with heavy metals including lead
• Detox Baths:
  • Hot Epsom Salt full bath – 35-35 minutes
  • Hot Epsom Foot bath -1/2 cup Epsom salt and 1/2 cup sea salt for at least 30 minutes *hottest water you can stand*
  • Saunas (wet) – max of 14 minutes, then shower immediately, then go bac
• Vitamins
  • Omega 3’s
  • Vitamin B12, B6 and methylfolate (B9) help the body detox heavy metals

How To Reduce Exposure to Aluminum In Everyday Life

• Aluminum has permeated mainstream products and it is not possible to avoid exposure.
• Proper levels of methyl folate, B6, B12 can help to counter high aluminum. However, the higher the aluminum, the harder it is to absorb these essential minerals.

AVOID ALL OF THESE:

• Typically, adults ingest 7 to 9 mg of aluminum per day.
• Aluminum cookware – use glass cookware or enamel cookware and pots instead of aluminum.
• Aspartame – avoid this, as it contains 60% aluminum.
• Deodorants with aluminum hydroxide.
• Digestive aides such as diarrhea and hemorrhoid medicines can also contain aluminum.
• Antacids like TUMS with aluminum hydroxide, antacids of all types contain aluminum.
• Aspirin (buffered) contain aluminum.
• Baked goods have approximately 5-15 mg aluminum per serving.
• Canned foods have aluminum.
• Canned beer and sodas that are drunk from aluminum made cans.
• Cheese – processed, single slices (like Kraft singles). Just one (1) slice of individually wrapped processed cheese can contain up to 50 mg of aluminum. The cheeseburger contain one of the highest aluminum contents of any food!
• Colgate brand toothpaste is high in aluminum.
• Cosmetics – many types including makeup and eye shadows contain aluminum.
• Deodorants containing with aluminum hydroxide.
• Fluoride – avoid all fluoride! It is a known neurotoxin and interacts with aluminum to increase the toxicity of both
• Food additives in the USA have 6 aluminum salts; the salts most commonly used are sodium aluminum phosphates and are  added to cake mixes, frozen dough, pancake mixes, self-rising flours, processed cheese and cheese foods.
• Food cooked or stored in aluminum pots and aluminum foil is another source of aluminum.  As much as 4 milligrams of aluminum can be transferred to each serving of an acidic food such as tomatoes or citrus fruits that has been heated or stored with aluminum.
• Hygiene and douche preparations.
• Metal cookware – do not leave in heat – use wooden, plastic
• Processed and frozen foods with containers can contain aluminum.
• Pickles that contain “alum” will contains aluminum and attack the bone. An average sized pickle contains 5 to 10 mg if it has been treated in an alum solution which is common. Alum is a form of aluminum sulfate that is used in the pickling solution to firm up the cucumbers.
• Steamers and strainers made from aluminum used in cooking contaminate vegetables

Drugs High In Aluminum Excipients
(Read more at https://www.drugs.com/inactive/aluminum-oxide-40.html)

• Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate 325 mg / 10 mg
• Acetaminophen and Hydrocodone Bitartrate 325 mg / 7.5 mg
• Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine 20 mg
• Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine 30 mg
• Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine 10 mg
• Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine 15 mg
• Cyclobenzaprine Hydrochloride 10 mg
• Dicyclomine Hydrochloride 20 mg
• Flagyl 500 mg
• Fluoxetine Hydrochloride 20 mg
• Hydroxyzine Pamoate 25 mg
• Norco 325 mg / 10 mg
• Nucynta tapentadol 50 mg
• Nucynta tapentadol 100 mg
• OxyContin 80 mg
• Oxymorphone Hydrochloride Extended-Release 40 mg
• Oxymorphone Hydrochloride Extended-Release 20 mg
• Pantoprazole Sodium Delayed-Release 40 mg
• Sertraline Hydrochloride 50 mg
• Viagra 100 mg

Environmental Exposures to Be Aware of Avoid

• Avoid vaccinations when not legally required.
  
• Chem trails contain aluminum.
• Tobacco contains aluminum.

Studies on Aluminum Toxicity

• Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia (POTS) with Chronic Fatigue After HPV Vaccination as Part of the “ASIA Syndrome”
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4528866/
• Long-term persistence of vaccine-derived aluminum hydroxide is associated with chronic cognitive dysfunction https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0162013409001895
• A role for the body burden of aluminium in vaccine-associated macrophagic myofasciitis (MMF) and chronic fatigue syndrome
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19004564

The Importance Of Salt

Salt has so many essential functions other than just regulating the water content of the body.
 

Download, print out and read the article “Salt Your Way To Health” by Dr. David Brownstein

• Salt is a strong natural antihistamine.
  It can be used to relieve asthma: Put some on your tongue after drinking a glass or two of water.
  It is as effective as an inhaler, without the toxicity. You should drink one or two glasses of water before putting salt on the tongue.
• Salt is a strong anti-stress element for the body.
• Salt is vital for extracting excess acidity from inside the cells, particularly brain cells.
  If you don’t want Alzheimer’s disease, don’t go salt-free and don’t let them put you on diuretic medications for long!
• Salt is vital for the kidneys.
  It is needed to clear excess acidity, passing it into the urine. Without sufficient salt in the body, the body will become more and more acidic.
• Salt is essential in the treatment of emotional and affective disorders.
  Lithium is a salt substitute used in the treatment of depression. To prevent suffering from depression, make sure you take some salt.
• Salt is essential for preserving the serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain.
  When water and salt perform their natural antioxidant duties and clear toxic waste from the body, essential amino acids, such as tryptophan and tyrosine, will not be sacrificed as chemical antioxidants.
  In a well-hydrated body, tryptophan is spared and gets into the brain tissue, where it is used to manufacture serotonin, melatonin, indolamine, and tryptamine—essential antidepressant neurotransmitters.
• Salt is vital for the prevention and treatment of cancer.
  Cancer cells are killed by oxygen; they are anaerobic organisms.
  They must live in a low-oxygen and acidic environment.
  When the body is well hydrated and salt expands the volume of blood circulation to reach all parts, the oxygen and the active and “motivated” immune cells in the blood reach the cancerous tissue and destroy it.
  Dehydration – the shortage of water and salt – suppresses the immune system of the body and the activity of its disease-fighting immune cells.
• Salt is most effective in stabilizing irregular heartbeat.
  contrary to the misconception that it causes high blood pressure – it is actually essential for the regulation of blood pressure, in conjunction with water.
  Naturally, the proportions are critical.
  A low-salt diet with high water intake will, in some people, cause blood pressure to rise.
  The reason is simple.  The essential intracellular minerals that are the natural components of unrefined salt are vital to keep blood pressure normal.
• Low salt diets can cause issues.
  As a secondary complication, a low-salt diet can also cause asthma – like shortness of breath.
  If you drink water and do not take salt, the water will not stay in the blood circulation adequately to completely fill all the blood vessels.
  In some people, this will cause fainting, and in others, tightening of the arteries—and eventually constriction of bronchioles in the lungs—to the point of registering a rise in blood pressure, complicated by breathlessness.
  One or two glasses of water and some salt—a little of it on the tongue—will quickly and efficiently quiet a racing and thumping heart, and in the long run will reduce the blood pressure and cure breathlessness.
• Salt is vital for sleep regulation.
  It is a natural hypnotic.
  If you drink a full glass of water, then put a few grains of salt on your tongue and let it stay there, you will fall into a natural, deep sleep.
  Don’t use salt on your tongue unless you also drink water. Repeated use of salt by itself might cause nosebleeds.
• Salt is a vitally needed element in the treatment of diabetics.
  It helps balance the sugar levels in the blood and reduces the need for insulin in those who have to inject the chemical for to regulate their blood sugar levels.
  Water and salt reduce the extent of secondary damage associated with diabetes.
• Salt is vital for the generation of hydroelectric energy in all of the cells in the body.
  It is used for local power generation at the sites of energy needed by the cells.
• Salt is vital to the communication and information
  The processing of nerve cells the entire time that the brain cells work—from the moment of conception to death.
• Salt is vital for the absorption of food particles through the intestinal tract. 
• Salt is vital for clearing the lungs of mucous plugs and sticky phlegm.
  This is particularly true in asthma, emphysema, and cystic fibrosis sufferers.
  Salt makes mucus fluid and loose—ready to “disconnect”—by changing the physical state of its structure (the process is called charge-shielding).
• Salt on the tongue will stop persistent dry coughs; water will enhance this effect. 
• Salt is vital for clearing up catarrh and sinus congestion. 
• Salt is vital for the prevention of gout and gouty arthritis. 
• Salt is essential for the prevention of muscle cramps. 
• Salt is vital to preventing excess saliva production.
  It helps to the point that it flows out of the mouth during sleep.
  Needing to constantly mop up excess saliva indicates a salt shortage.
• Osteoporosis and salt
  Major osteoporosis is the result of salt and water shortages in the body.
  More than 20 percent of the salt reserves of the body are stored in the shaft of the long bones, giving them their strength.
  When the diet is short of salt, the stored salt in the bones is released to osmotically balance the content of salt in the blood.
• Salt is vital for maintaining self-confidence and a positive self-image.
  A serotonin and melatonin controlled “personality output” depend on salt.
•  Salt is vital for maintaining sexuality and libido!
• Salt is vital for reducing a double chin.
  When the body is short of salt, it means the body really is short of water.
  The salivary glands sense the salt shortage and are obliged to produce more saliva to lubricate the act of chewing and swallowing and also to supply the stomach with the water it needs for breaking down foods.
  Circulation to the salivary glands increases, and the blood vessels become “leaky” in order to supply the glands with more water to manufacture saliva.
  This leakiness spills to areas beyond the glands themselves, causing increased bulk under the skin of the chin, the cheeks, and into the neck.
• Salt is vital for preventing varicose veins and spider veins on the legs and thighs.
• Sea salt and unrefined salt from salt mines contain about 80 mineral elements that the body needs.
  Some of these elements are needed in trace amounts. Unrefined sea salt is a better choice of salt than other refined salt on the market.
  Ordinary table salt bought in supermarkets has been stripped of its companion elements and contains additive elements to keep it powdery and porous.
  Aluminum is a very toxic element to the nervous system and until recently was used as an anti-caking agent in the preparation of table salt.
  Aluminum is implicated as one of the primary causes of Alzheimer’s disease.
  If you see aluminum mentioned on the label of a salt container in the supermarket, don’t buy it, and ask the manager to remove it from the shelf.
• Unrefined sea salt is now proving to be a pain and anticancer medication in animals.
• Salt is vital for maintaining muscle tone and strength.
  Involuntary leakage of urine could be a consequence of low salt intake that has resulted in the weakness of the bladder neck.

Iodine and Hair Testing

Iodine deficiency is widespread and epidemic!
Both fast and slow oxidizers improve with iodine.
Iodine is one of the most important minerals in the body that does not show in the hair test.
Iodine is one of the most important minerals needed for  thyroid, metabolic, immune system, neurological and digestive health.If this mineral is imbalanced – either too low or too high – as compared to the other minerals of magnesium, potassium and sodium, then important functions in the body that are altered.

Iodine and Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis

• Iodine is not read by most hair mineral testing laboratories because it is difficult to measure accurately.
• However, this does not diminish its importance!

Low Iodine and Mercury and Copper Toxicity

Iodine deficiency may increase the risk of toxicity from mercury and copper.
The mercury and copper will build up in the thyroid gland in some people, when the metabolic rate is sluggish.

• Iodine deficiency may increase the risk of toxicity from mercury and copper.  Both mercury and copper tend to build up in the thyroid gland in some people, especially when the metabolic rate is sluggish.

Key Points About Iodine Deficiency

• One of the most important and overlooked minerals today is iodine. Iodine is needed in the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. However, iodine is also required for every tissue of the body. It is called the endocrine mineral because it is important not only for the thyroid gland, but also for the adrenal glands, ovaries, breasts, prostate gland, and the entire hormone system of the body. More and more research indicates that the entire world population today is deficient in iodine.
• IODINE (lacking the extra electron in its outer shell) binds to breast, prostate and stomach.
• IODIDE (has an extra electron) binds to the thyroid glands, salivary glands and the skin.
• A combination is required for supplementation to get a better systemic effect. 
• Every cell in the body needs and uses iodine.
• Every 12 minutes, all the blood flows through the thyroid gland so that it can purify the blood and kill bacteria and viral infections.
• Iodine first goes to the thyroid gland for healthy thyroid function. The thyroid gland contains the bulk of iodine that stored in the body, but other glands also contain significant amounts of iodine.
• Females breasts have the second highest concentration of iodine in the body. The requirement for iodine in the body at puberty goes up tremendously for girls.  This is also so that breast milk will be disinfected when we nurse children.  Studies have shown that breast cancer is the result of no iodine being stored in a women’s breasts.
• Men store iodine in their prostate gland.  Prostate cancer is related to no iodine in the prostrate.
• Only 10% of the iodine that is added to refined salt is bio-available.  We need naturally, unrefined salt in our diet.  Vegan and vegetarian diets are often low in iodine.
• Our soil is deficient in iodine especially in the Midwestern USA.
• Bromide, chloride and fluoride are all inhibitors of iodine.
• Pollution and pesticides contain bromine.  Bromine was added to bakery products in the 1970’s and this significantly reduces iodine in the body.
• Many prescription drugs contain bromide and fluoride as well (Prozac, Paxil, Luvox).
• Iodine levels have dropped 50% in the past 30 years in the USA!
• Enough iodine in the body will help the body to detox bromide, chloride, fluoride and mercury, in particularly from vaccinations.
• Mercury will impair the enzyme that is needed for iodine processing in the body.

Iodine’s Essential Function In The Body

Iodine’s main function is in the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland,
but many other organs in the body have a need for iodine in order to function normally.
There is an antagonism between iodine and iron, manganese, aluminum, nickel, copper and other minerals.

• Iodine is an essential mineral that’s vital to the proper functioning of the thyroid. The thyroid gland is responsible for managing growth and metabolism.
• An iodine deficiency can cause symptoms such as fatigue, high cholesterol, lethargy, depression, and swelling of the thyroid gland.
• Prevent this dangerous deficiency by eating the right amount of iodine rich foods each day. Iodine is an essential part of a healthy, balanced diet.
• Since the body cannot synthesize this mineral, it’s important to include various iodine rich foods in your diet each day. Fortunately, there are many fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and seafood options that make it easy to get the iodine your body needs each day.
• Several studies have demonstrated a relationship between low iodine intake and fibrocystic disease of the breast (FDB), both in women and laboratory animals.
• During the early 1900’s, the iodine/iodide solution called Lugol solution was used extensively, effectively and safely in medical practice, for both low activity and above normal activity of the thyroid gland.
• The recommended daily intake for iodine supplementation was 2 to 6 drops of Lugol Solution which contained 12.5 to 37.5 mg total iodide. That amount was mentioned as lately as 1995 in a book on Pharmaceutical Sciences.
• Tableted Lugol’s are called “Iodorol” and are also available online and there is not taste, so compliance is better. Each capsule contains 12.5 mg of iodine and iodide.  It is also sold in 50 mg pills.
• Several investigators have shown convincing evidence connecting inadequate iodine intake and breast cancer. Japanese women living in Japan consumed a daily average of 13.8 mg total elemental iodine and they experience one of the lowest prevalence (risk) for breast, ovarian and uterine cancer.
• In the 1960’s, one slice of bread in the USA contained the full RDA of 0.15 mg iodine. The risk for breast cancer was then 1 in 20. Over the last 2 decades, iodine was replaced by bromine in the bread making process.
• Bromine blocks thyroid function and may interfere with the anticancer effect of iodine on the breast. Currently, the risk for breast cancer is 1 in 8 and increasing 1% per year.
• The RDA limits for vitamins and minerals were established after World War II and one of the last essential elements included in the RDA system was iodine, established in 1980 and confirmed in 1989.
• The recommended daily allowance (RDA) is only 50 mcg per day for iodine and this was based on the amount of iodine/iodide needed to prevent goiter, extreme stupidity and hypothyroidism. This amount is not adequate!
• The optimal requirement of the whole human body for iodine has never been studied. Therefore, the optimal amount of this element for physical and mental well-being is unknown.
• Based on demographic studies, the mainland Japanese consumed an average of 13.8 mg daily and they are one of the healthiest people in all countries.

A Female Mineral

Iodine may be called a  “female mineral” because women need more of it and it is critical today for breast health.

• Next to the thyroid gland, the ovaries require more iodine than any other gland or organ in women or men.
• While it affects all the hormones, it is particularly important for the female hormones such as the proper balance between the forms of estrogen – estriol, estrone and estradiol.

Iodine Supplementation Tips

The thyroid gland needs iodide to function properly.
The original study done 80 years ago to control goiter in adolescent girls used 9 mg iodide daily.

• We recommend that you do not begin supplementation unless you have done a urine loading test for iodine deficiency and have supervision.
• The thyroid gland and the body needs iodide to function properly. The thyroid gland can store 50 mg of iodine, the whole body 1500 mg.
• Therapeutic supplementation of iodine are typically between 6 – 50 mg per day depending on the case and under the supervision of your health care practitioner, with proper urine testing done prior to supplementation.
• To supplement iodine and iodide, use tablet form called Iodoral or IodoRX. Another option is the liquid solution called “Lugol’s Solution”.
• Both are available on the internet as non-prescription nutritional supplements, BUT supervision by a health care practitioner is strongly urged.
• The Iodoral or IodoRX has no taste  and does not cause gastric upset which can sometimes occur for some people on the Lugol’s Solution. Each tablet of Iodoral or IodoRX contains 12.5 mg.  Iodoral or IodoRX also comes in 25 mg and 50 mg doses on the internet. To prevent  gastric irritation, the iodine/iodide preparation is absorbed into a colloidal silica excipient and to eliminate the unpleasant taste of iodine, the tablets are coated with a thin film of pharmaceutical glaze.
• Lugols’ Solution comes in 2 types: a 5% and a 2% solution. One (1) drop of the 5% Lugol’s Solution contains 6.25 mg (2 drops contain 12.5 mg.) One (1) drop of the 2% Lugol’s Solution contains 2.5 mg (2 drops contain 5 mg.)  It has a taste to it, but can be diluted in water or juice if needed to cover the taste. 
• These Iodine specialists have recently discovered it is very helpful to have the Iodine Spot and 24-hour Loading Test before implementing iodine supplementation in order to investigate the presence of a possible iodine absorption defects. 
• If a person is going to start Iodine Therapy, it is highly recommended having a thyroid panel test done as well for TSH, T4 and Free T3.
• Iodoral or IodoRX will enhance the response of any thyroid hormones taken.  You may need to cut down on the amount of thyroid hormones being taken if you experience palpitation, anxiety, increase sweating and intolerance to heat.  This is all because Iodoral or IodoRX decreases your need for thyroid hormones.  It is recommended that you reevaluate after 1 month if you are on thyroid hormones and starting Iodoral or IodoRX.
• It is recommended that you reevaluate with your health care practitioner after about 3 months of supplementation with Iodoral or IodoRX if you are not on any thyroid hormones, and at 1 month if you are.
• These three iodine research doctors: Dr. Guy Abraham, Dr. David Brownstein and Dr. Jorge Flechas have treated more than 4,000 patients with iodine supplementation. The supplementation protocol is from their writings and lectures.

Iodine Supplementation and Other Supports

Adequate unrefined sea salt daily such as Celtic sea salt, Himalayan, Redmond’s, etc. supports adrenal function.
An easy way to support this is to use 1/2 tsp. of unrefined salt daily (adult amount) on your food.

• Daily Salt Supplementing When Supplementing Iodine
  Once you start supplementing with iodine, you should also be on approximately ½ of unrefined salt (Celtic sea salt, pink Himalayan, Redmond’s) to assist in the removal of toxins released by iodine. Not all sea salt is unrefined.  It should be gray, red or black in color.  If it is white, it is likely refined.  Unrefined salt helps bind toxins so they can effectively exit the body.  It also contains a full spectrum of minerals.  These minerals help to maintain balance in the body and do not react like a refined salt.
• You should NOT use any white (REFINED) table salt.  This is a toxic substance that has been cleaned by a brine containing chloride. You should not experience hypertension or swelling from a good unrefined salt. If you do, contact your health care provider.  Unrefined salt is also healing for the adrenals which can become stressed during detoxing and through daily stresses of modern life.
• Adequate water intake for your weight is essential for detox.  Your minimum water intake should be half your weight, in ounces, drunk per day.
• B Complex vitamins are essential in detox.  They must have  the correct forms of B9 (methylfolate) and B12 (methylcobalamin) especially for those with the MTHFR genetic mutations – you should NOT be taking supplements with folic acid or foods high in folic acid (i.e. asin white flour products).Avoid all white flour products during detoxification and beyond. Many white flour products are brominated which reduces iodine in the body AND contain folic acid, which decreased the methylation cycle in the body for detoxification.
• Avoid all chlorinated or brominated pools or hot tubs during detox during and after detox.
• Avoid all fluoridated water, tooth paste, fluoride dental treatments during and after detox.
• Avoid all birth control pills, synthetic hormones, hormone replacement therapy, fluoride based medical drugs (like Prozac) or bromide based medical drugs including most asthma inhalers. Always research what prescription drugs are made of before agreeing to take them!
• Avoid fruits and wines treated with pesticides during and after detox. 
• Eat organic fruit and produce whenever possible!
• Other supplements needed to support detox pathways and key organs are: Magnesium, Omega-3’s, Selenium, Vitamin C (in the form of sodium ascorbate), Vitamin D and Zinc.
• Consult your practitioner for their recommendations.

Salt Loading For Detox Support While On Iodine Supplementation

• Consult your health care practitioner for their professional advice.
• Salt loading is done to help when the individual is feeling overloaded by the toxins being released from supplementing with iodine.
• It is only done a few days at a time to relieve the detox symptoms.
• If your iodine detox is happening too fast, and you are uncomfortable, a rash develops, swelling, etc. then we recommend that you stop the supplements for 1 or 2 days.
• If there is a detox aggravation, then the dosage of iodine should be reduced to slow the release of toxins down and not overload the detoxification pathways. Consult your health care practitioner for their professional advice in your case.

Salt Loading Procedure: How to slow detox symptoms from iodine supplementation

• Add ½ tsp of unrefined salt into 4 ounces of warm water.
• Drink the mixture and follow it up with a 12 oz glass of filtered water.
• Repeat every 30-45 minutes as needed until urination begins

What Depletes Iodine

Besides iodine, the halogens include fluorine, bromine and chlorine among others.

• Stress depletes iodine!
• Many people are being told by doctors to avoid or limit salt.
  For many people, iodized salt is one of the few sources of iodine besides foods from the sea. Refined table salt is a junk food that is best avoided, but unrefined sea salt is an excellent source of minerals, including some iodine.
• Iodine is no longer added to commercial breads.
  Until the 1980s, iodine was routinely used as a dough conditioner in commercial bakeries. This actually provided a significant amount of extra iodine for many people. Due to fears about getting too much iodine, (which were probably totally fabricated), the government forced bakers to stop using iodine and instead to use bromine, a poison, to make bread. Bromine is also one of the iodine antagonists that makes iodine deficiency much worse.
• Bromine and bromides
  Bromide interferes with iodine uptake and also iodine utilization. When iodine is supplemented, people start eliminating large quantities of bromine from the body. Healing reactions associated with taking iodine or kelp supplements. The widespread use of brominated compounds in bread-making, soft drinks such as Gatorade and Mountain Dew, and in other industries has also caused bromides to find their way into the water and food supplies of America and other developed nations. It is thus hard to avoid this element in your food. 
• Chlorine and chlorinated compounds such as chloramines.
  This is another highly toxic element that interferes with iodine utilization in the body is chlorine. Toxic chlorine compounds such as chloramines and bleaching agents are in most public water  supplies. Chlorine bleach is also added to flour to whiten it and is used to sterilize or sanitize fruits, vegetables, fish, meats and many other foods. It is used in other industries so that chlorine compounds are at toxic levels are all around us
  
• Fluoride and Fluoridated Water Supplies
  The water is a problem in most major metropolitan areas and the water is then used to make many food products, from breads and other bakery goods, chips, dips, pickles, beverages and thousands of others. In addition, the fluorides from the water have found their way into the water table and irrigation systems of most of the United States. Fluoride levels in all the crops grown in America are too high.

Iodine and Toxicity

Iodine opposes or antagonizes the halogens.

This has been discussed above. Taking iodine often leads to the elimination from the body of bromines, chlorine, fluorides and other metals as well. Iodine improves thyroid activity. As thyroid activity recovers, the body is far more able to eliminate all the toxic metals. This is the main mechanism behind iodine’s ability to reduce the toxic metal burden in the body.Iodine is a germicide – antibiotic, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal and anticancer. It appears to help the body fight off many types of infection. This occurs partly by improving thyroid activity. However, iodine can also act as an anti-oxidant, according to researchers.

Iodine and Cancer

According to medical studies, iodine deficiency is associated with breast cancer,
as well as ovarian, thyroid, and other cancers.

• As  populations have become more iodine deficient, the incidence of these cancers has risen significantly.
• Allopathic medicine has made little progress against these cancers after years of research.
• Iodine can help, and does help prevent and even eliminate some of these cancers.

Iodine and Thyroid Hormone Replacements

Medical research indicates that thyroid hormone replacement therapy worsens iodine deficiency.

• Supplementing a person with iodine in the proper amounts, along with a complete natural healing program can reduces and eliminate the need for thyroid hormone replacement.
• Conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Grave’s disease go away on their own when the body is brought into better overall balance and health.
  

How To Assess Iodine In the Body

• The blood serum iodine level. This is not always accurate, but may be helpful.
• The oral iodine loading test. One takes 50 mg of iodine in a pill or liquid form. Then one collects all urine for 24 hours. This urine is sent to a specialized laboratory that calculates the percentage of iodine that the body excreted from the loading dose that was given. It should be at least 90%. Most people are extremely depleted, however.
• The iodine patch test. A much simpler test is to paint some iodine on one’s forearm and then wait and see how long it takes for the body to absorb the iodine patch or spot. This can be done at home at practically no cost, and gives a good general ideal of iodine status. To do the test,buys some liquid iodine and paint a square about 2 inches on a side, on the inside of one’s arm. It should not disappear in less than a few days. However, in most people it is absorbed and disappears within a few hours, indicating a severe need for iodine.

Iodine and Selenium

Selenium is critical for two phases of thyroid hormone production.
It is thus considered a close relative to iodine in the correction of thyroid difficulties.
Selenium is critical for two phases of thyroid hormone production.
It is close related to iodine in the correction of thyroid function.

• Iodine is regulated in the thyroid but the most important pathway is the conversion of iodide into iodine through an oxidation reaction.
• This requires an enzyme called TPO or thyroperoxidase. It also requires hydrogen peroxide. If too much hydrogen peroxide is left in the thyroid, however, it leads to Hashimoto’s disease, a common thyroid problem.
• The mineral that helps control hydrogen peroxide is selenium. It is needed to make glutathione peroxidase, whose function, among many others, is to detoxify hydrogen peroxide after it has done its job in the thyroid gland.
• Selenium is also required later in the metabolism of the thyroid hormone in the conversion of the relatively inactive T4 to the active thyroid hormone T3. The enzyme primarily responsible for this conversion is iodothyronine deiodinase. This enzyme also requires selenium to function properly.
• Any deficiency of selenium in the body will impair T3 production and thus cause hypothyroidism symptoms, even if the body is producing plenty of T4.
• This is sometimes called a conversion problem, as opposed to an iodine deficiency problem.
  

Thyroid Antagonists

• Soy and iodine. Soy products not only contain copper, which can interfere with iodine and thyroid activity. They also contain enzyme inhibitors that affect the thyroid at times.
  
• Tap water and iodine. This is also detrimental for thyroid activity, thanks to its chlorine and possibly fluoride mixed with the water. Spring or distilled water are far better for the thyroid and iodine metabolism.
• Vegetarian Diets. Since the best sources of iodine are products from the sea, vegetarians and especially vegans are very prone to iodine deficiency. The amount of iodine found in sea salt is not sufficient.  The only way a vegetarian can get enough iodine is to eat a lot of kelp or other sea vegetables on a daily basis.

Foods High In Iodine

• Bananas – Bananas contain iodine, making them a healthy and nutrient-rich food to supplement. A medium-sized banana contains 3 mcg of essential iodine.
• Baked Potatoes (skin on) – One medium potato provides 60 mcg of iodine.
• Baked Turkey Breast – Three ounces of baked turkey breast meat provides 34 mcg of essential iodine. Turkey also provides your body with B-vitamins, potassium, and phosphorus, all of which are essential to a strong and healthy body.
• Boiled Eggs – One hard boiled egg provides just under 12 mcg of the iodine needed for the day.
• Canned Tuna –Tuna that is canned in oil usually contains more iodine than when it’s canned in water. Three ounces of canned tuna provides 17 mcg of iodine, has high protein, Vitamin D and iron contents.
• Cheddar Cheese – Cheddar cheese in one ounce of cheddar cheese provides 12 mcg of iodine.
• Cod – A three-ounce serving size of cod provides your body with 99 mcg of iodine. Cod is also a healthy source of protein, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and Vitamin E.
• Corn –Just half a cup of canned corn a provides 14 mcg of iodine.
• Cranberries – Cranberries have 400 mcg of iodine in a four ounce serving. They have a high concentration of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber, and they’re known to prevent urinary tract infections.
• Dried Prunes – Just 5 dried prunes provide 13 mcg of iodine for your body with essential fiber, boron, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and much more.
• Dried Seaweed – A quarter-ounce serving contains 4,500 mcg of iodine. Consume smaller portions over time in order to gain the health benefits.
• Fish Sticks – Two fish sticks can supply your body with 35 mcg of iodine.
• Fortified Iodized Salt – Many brands of salt are fortified with the essential mineral iodine and 1 gram has 77 mcg of iodine.
• Green (String) Beans – A half-cup serving contains 3 mcg of iodine. And they are a great source of Vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
• Himalayan Crystal Salt  – Himalayan crystal salt is a viable alternative. Half a gram of Himalayan crystal salt provides 250 mcg of iodine.
• Lobster – Lobster at a 100-gram serving provides 100 mcg of the essential mineral.
• Milk – One cup of milk contains an impressive 56 mcg of the mineral, or about 37% of what the average person must consume each day.
• Navy Beans  – Enjoy a half-cup serving with any meal, and you’ll provide 32 mcg of iodine plus protein, copper, potassium, calcium, folate, and iodine.
• Seafood and fish as iodine supplements – These foods are excellent sources of iodine. However  all fish – and even more so shellfish – are high in mercury and mercury replaces iodine in the body.  Eating 3 to 4  cans of sardines weekly are are an excellent food because they are high in omega-3 oils, available vitamin D, selenium and other nutrients everyone needs today. They are also so small they do not accumulate nearly as much mercury. They are also always wild caught, and are cooked promptly when they are caught.
• Shrimp  – A three-ounce serving of shrimp provides 35 mcg of iodine. Shrimp also provides your body with other essential minerals, primarily protein and calcium
• Strawberries – Strawberries are a nutritious fruit that provides your body with many vitamins and minerals. A 1 cup serving contains 13 mcg of iodine.
• Yogurt – A cup of plain yogurt provides 154 mcg of iodine.

HTMA Practitioner Professional Training Course – Rated #1 By Graduate Practitioners

Updated and expanded for 2026.

We offer the most comprehensive, in depth professional course for all types of Health Practitioners.
Learn how to understand and integrate HTMA into your current health practice or start a new successful HTMA practice!

Enrollments spots are now open to begin the Course immediately!

Spots are limited. Please complete the form below now to hold your spot in this Course.

The current cost for the HTMA Professional Training Course of 45+ hours is $1,495.

This online comprehensive Course will teach you exactly how to understand and integrate HTMA in your health care practice!

✓  Learn the key mineral deficiencies and excesses that must be corrected.
✓  Learn about the toxic heavy metals and what minerals will help excrete them
✓  Learn how to help your patients to achieve a higher level of health and wellness – in less time!

About The Instructor For HTMA Practitioner Professional Training Course

• The Course Instructor is also the Director of HTMA Experts and a highly skilled HTMA Practitioner and Certified Classical Homeopathy for many years.
• She has worked with hundreds and hundreds of hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) patients over many years with success and remarkable health improvements and health recoveries!
• The Instructor uses HTMA’s, targeted nutritional supplements according to the HTMA report as well as homeopathy to help her patients achieve global improvements more quickly.
• The Instructor has a high success rate in complex cases in her practice which includes using HTMA and homeopathy on those diagnosed with ADD/ADHD autoimmune diseases, autism, Celiac Disease, Crohn’s Disease, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, diabetes, fibromyalgia, GERD, Hashimoto’s, hypothyroidism, infertility, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Long Covid, Lyme Disease, Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), PANDAS / PANS,  Small Intestinal Bowel Overgrowth (SIBO), thyroid diseases, ulcerative colitis, vaccine injuries of all types, women’s health issues and many other complex health issues.

Practitioners New To Hair Testing…
will learn all about hair testing and gain essential knowledge in order to integrate hair testing confidently into their practice.
This includes learning how to integrate homeopathy into your HTMA practice for faster patient outcomes.

Practitioners Already Doing Hair Testing…
will refresh and improve their skills and further expand their knowledge.

Enrollment Requirements For The HTMA Practitioner Professional Training Course

• This online course is for professional Health Care Providers including: Acupuncturists, Chiropractors, Doctors, Fitness Coaches, Health Coaches, Homeopaths, Medical Doctors, Nutritional Consultants, Physician Assistants, Registered Nurses and others with formal training and certifications in the fields of alternative health or traditional medicine.
• You may enroll in this course with proof of your credentials.
• You may be living in any country to take this online HTMA Practitioner course.
• This professional course is geared specifically to the HTMA labs that are provided Trace Elements Lab, located in the USA and with international distributors worldwide.
• Prerequisite:  A current HTMA hair test lab that is less than 3 months old is required for registration in this course. A discount code off the stated price for the comprehensive hair test is provided upon your course acceptance.
• Having your own HTMA results in hand while taking this course will greatly enrich your overall learning experience of the complicated data interpretation that this HTMA course offers.

About The HTMA Practitioner Professional Training Course

• Cost: $1,599. If you pay for the course within 7 days of your application acceptance, you will receive a coupon code for a $100 discount.
  
• Goal: This course teaches what you need to know to become a successful HTMA Practitioner and integrate this valuable and guiding  hair testing method into your practice.
• Completion Time:  Enrolled students have 4 months to complete the course after the course registration and first day of access.
• Course Content: This professional online course takes about 45+ hours to complete at your own pace.  The HTMA Professional Training Course includes extensive printed materials, graphs and  charts plus multiple video and audio lectures as part of the comprehensive curriculum.
• Course Modules: There are 30 modules that include HTMA reading materials, printed guides on minerals, mineral ratios and mineral patterns, downloadable graphs and many other resources.
• Audios: There are 40+ audio lectures by the expert Instructor with many years of experience on hundreds of hair tests for patients with a wide variety of complex health issues.
• Videos: There are 15+ hours of instructional videos integrated into the course from top experts in the field of hair tissue mineral analysis.
• Weekly Assignments: There are 40 homework assignment sets that are related  to the material presented for each module.
• Students will need to complete about three (3) assignments per week to finish the course on time. Each assignment is reviewed by the Instructor which provides  the ongoing opportunity to ask your specific questions related to each assignment.  
• Case Studies: There  are 7 in-depth HTMA case studies presented by the Instructor.  They include various health care scenarios for women, children and men with complex health issues and very different hair testing patterns. These case studies are presented along  with their HTMA graphs, case medical histories and detailed care plans plus in depth audios for each case study.
  The various complex health issues in these case studies include discussions and HTMA markers as related to the following: adrenal fatigue and burnout, arsenic toxicity, Autism, birth control use, cadmium toxicity, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, copper toxicity, lead toxicity, mercury toxicity, OCD, PANDAS / PANS, Parkinson’s disease, speech delay, tattoo toxicity,  trauma impacts of various types, vaccine injury and other complex health issues.
• Certificate: The online final exam with 100 questions must be passed with a score of 80% or more to demonstrate your competence of the material and concepts. On successful completion of the course and the exam, you will receive a Certificate as an HTMA Practitioner by HTMA Experts.
  

What You Will Learn In This HTMA Practitioner Professional Training Course

This HTMA Practitioner Professional Training Course is a “deep dive” into hair testing and is very comprehensive!

✓   Learn the history of HTMA and how to skillfully interpret the complex HTMA graphs and reports.

✓  Learn about each of the metabolic types and the various health challenges associated with each.

✓  Learn how to correctly interpret the essential minerals and the toxic metal graphs plus significant ratios.

✓  Learn how to determine, assess and treat patients presenting with the symptoms of hidden copper toxicity.

✓  Learn how to apply this knowledge and integrate homeopathy in your HTMA practice to achieve faster outcomes!

Course Modules Include All Of The Following 

1. Introduction to the course guidelines and the course Instructor.
2. The history of hair testing and its use today.
3. Why doing hair testing is such as valuable tool in any health practice.
4. How to properly cut a proper sample for the most accurate hair testing.
5. How to properly interpret HTMA graphs for an accurate understanding of overall mineral and health status.
6. How to review the various HTMA lab reports and fully understand them.
7. Understanding the basic concepts of hair testing.
8. Understanding the 8 basic metabolic types in the Trace Labs HTMA report.
9. Learning details and the importance of each of the 4 macro minerals tested in the HTMA.
10. Learning details about the other 11 essential minerals tested in the HTMA.
11. How to properly interpret the 8 toxic elements graph tested in the HTMA.
12. Understanding the effects of the toxic heavy metals and the various health issues associated with toxicity including: aluminum, antimony, arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, lead, mercury and uranium.
13. How to properly interpret the HTMA 15 additional elements graph and understanding its importance.
14. How to properly interpret the HTMA 7 significant ratios graph and understanding its importance.
15. How to properly interpret the HTMA 9 toxic ratios graph and understanding their importance.
16. How to properly interpret the HTMA 11 additional ratios graph and understanding its importance.
17. Understanding copper toxicity and its powerful negative impact on mental, physical and emotional health, especially in women.
18. How to assess hidden (unbound) copper in the HTMA and how to help your patients to reduce it’s impact.
19. The health impacts of birth control, high copper, high estrogen and their relationship to cancers.
20. The importance of iodine and salt and other minerals for thyroid health and how to determine available iodine markers.
21. Understanding the mineral wheels and the complex synergistic and antagonist relationships of minerals, hormones and vitamins.
22. How to use the recommended supplements provided on the HTMA for faster health improvements.
23. How to integrate dietary and food recommendations provided in the HTMA for faster improvements.
24. How to integrate cell salts and basic homeopathic remedies and effective homeopathic protocols to help increase minerals more rapidly.
25. BONUS: How to assess a patient’s trauma history based on the HTMA results, using a medical history and medical timeline.
26. BONUS: How to integrate successful Banerji Protocols using homeopathy to support specific diagnoses in your patients.
27. BONUS: How to integrate homeopathic megapotencies to help clear a patient’s deep personal and/or ancestral trauma patterns to improve their overall health.
28. MULTIPLE CASE STUDIES:  There are 7 in depth case studies presented by the Instructor of the main HTMA patterns from actual cases, to help you better understand various common health scenarios.
    This includes the review of each case study’s medical and trauma history.  You will also learn how to design an effective care plan for your future patients – including specific mineral supplements and dietary recommendations. This includes integrating other health strategies such as the use of homeopathy for trauma release and also homeopathic remedies and protocols for faster detoxification and mineral rebalancing with improved patient outcomes.
29. HTMA  Practice  Tips:  Learn how to keep a patient in your practice by helping them improve their health issues more rapidly.
30. HTMA Resources:  Downloadable PDF’s of scientific articles and book lists for further independent study plus other resources.
31. And more!

Testimonials About The HTMA Professional Training Course From Participants

The HTMA Professional Training was one of the most beneficial courses I’ve ever taken. The information gained not only about the HTMA process and its value to clients, but also the overall health and wellness training given, was beyond my expectations. I feel that I’ve added to my knowledge base in how to better understand the human body, the factors that influence health and disease, and the body’s innate ability to heal when in a balanced state. The materials I collected and binder of information makes me feel prepared to work with clients.

The instructor, Kari Kindem, was thorough, held high expectations, and was quick to follow-up if any needs arose. She also shared her vast knowledge of homeopathy which added significantly to the course. She was supportive throughout the course.

Kim Walker, CHC, B.S. Ed., Texas
January 2026

_________________

I thoroughly enjoyed this HTMA course and gained a deep understanding of the critical relationships between minerals, how heavy metals disrupt our health, and how imbalances are connected to specific symptoms and conditions. The curriculum is incredibly comprehensive, breaking down complex topics in an accessible way. I was particularly fascinated by the sections on homeopathy, and learning how unresolved grief and trauma impact mineral levels was a game-changer and adds a powerful, holistic and integrative dimension to client care.

The course materials are top-notch, and the Instructor was fantastic, incredibly knowledgeable and always quick to provide helpful answers. The overall value is exceptional. I highly recommend this course to any practitioner looking to confidently and effectively integrate hair testing into their practice!

Olivia Gorg, MSFN, Nutritionist & Graduate Student, Pennsylvania
October 2025

_________________

I came into this course curious and a little overwhelmed, and left feeling clear, supported, and genuinely excited to use HTMA in real life. What made the biggest difference was the Instructor’s care.  She checked in after each module, encouraged me when life got busy, and made sure I actually finished. It felt like having a mentor beside me, not just a teacher. The material is generous and practical: step-by-step worksheets, case walk-throughs, and simple explanations that finally made ratios like Ca/K, Na/K, Ca/P, and Na/Mg “click.”

This truly feels like several courses rolled into one with so many options, protocols, and resources that it’s like an encyclopedia I can return to anytime.  I now have a repeatable process for intake, reading the chart, setting priorities, writing plans, and I feel confident serving clients, family, and friends right away. 

Suzan, Certified  Nutritional Practitioner (CNP), Ontario, Canada.
October 2025

_________________

I would like to express my sincere appreciation for the HTMA training course. What I valued most was the structured progression of the content, moving smoothly from the simplest concepts to more advanced topics. This made the material easy to understand and apply. The worksheets provided were also an excellent resource, offering reliable references that I can return to whenever needed. I also found the integration of Homeopathic principles with nutrition and suggested supplements to be a unique and powerful addition that enhanced the potential for outstanding case results.

Furthermore, I would like to highlight the teaching style of the Instructor.  She was highly engaging, patient, and delivered the material in a very clear and enjoyable way. This has truly been the most valuable and enjoyable course I have attended in the field of HTMA, and I am deeply grateful for the knowledge and confidence I gained from it. Thank you very much for this exceptional learning experience!

Reem Alenezi, Clinical Nutritionist, Kuwait
September 2025

_________________

I thoroughly enjoyed this HTMA course. It furthered my knowledge on minerals and how they are connected to everything in the body. Understanding how easily they can become unbalanced and cause other vitamins or minerals to become unbalanced. Using HTMA testing can show you what is happening on a cellular level. This gives you a better understanding of what’s happening in the body years before blood testing can.

This course had many informative videos and diagrams that helped me understand minerals and the body. Communication was great and the Instructor helped  answer any questions I had.

I think anyone in the health field would benefit from understanding HTMA. It gives a deep understanding of mineral balancing and helps with many different illnesses known or mysterious. Minerals are the spark plug of the body. So many people are unaware of their mineral status.

Leah H. HTMA Practitioner, Arkansas, USA
August 2025

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“The Instructor is very knowledgeable and expertise, she gives lots of good advice and explanations. The course added lots of new information to me about the HTMA and the other additional materials about homeopathy and other things that I am glad I knew about by now.
Israa, Midwife, Tennessee, USA
May 2025

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“My experience studying this course has been a rich one and has added a lot to me.  The way of explaining and conveying information was very clear and organized, and the sequence of lessons was very useful.  It was also supported by many files that we can always refer to, as well as many distinguished videos. I am looking forward to using what I have learned to serve those around me.  I am very grateful to the Instructor for her efforts with me throughout the past months. You are doing a wonderful job and knowing you is truly a gift and enriching addition to everyone you meet!”

Rawan Ebrahim, Health Practitioner, Kuwait.
May 2025.

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Tattoo Toxins and Health Impacts

Order a Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis – Hair Test Here

Tattoo toxins from various inks carry risks that can have serious negative health consequences.
Tattoos have heavy metals in tattoo inks and effects on human health and the safety measures to consider.
These metals can be seen in a hair test lab.

Orginal at: https://interclinical.com.au/newsletter/toxins-in-tattoo-inks-and-health-impacts/?mc_cid=92e005fc00&mc_eid=c6aa6a9874

26 July 2023

Tattoo Toxins and Health Impacts

Tattoos have been an integral part of human culture for millennia, serving as art, symbols of identity, and expressions of personal beliefs. However, in recent years, concerns about heavy metal toxicity related to tattoo inks have grown, sparking interest in understanding the potential health risks associated with getting inked. In this article, we delve into tattoos and explore the presence of heavy metals in tattoo inks, their possible effects on human health, and the safety measures to consider.

Introduction

Tattoos have a rich historical background and have become increasingly popular in modern times. According to recent statistics in Australia, about 19% of the population has at least one tattoo, with females accounting for almost 24% of tattooed individuals. The age of first tattooing is also shifting, with 36% of people getting their first tattoo at the age of 26 or older, and 20% in their mid-30s or older. Tattoos are most popular in Victoria, followed by NSW and QLD [1].

Health Impact of Tattoos

While there is some research suggesting no direct link between tattoos and skin cancer, concerns about the health effects of tattoo inks, especially heavy metals, remain [2][3][4]. It is well established that exposure to small amounts of heavy metals over an extended period may lead to chronic and acute toxic effects.

Heavy Metal Content in Tattoo Ink

In the tattooing process, the needle is loaded with ink and injected into the skin, past the epidermis and into the dermis, where the ink is deposited. Some blood vessels are broken in this process, providing a pathway for the ink and any associated metals to enter directly into the bloodstream. Once in the dermis, tattoo inks expose the body to small amounts of these metals for an extended period of time, leading to potential allergic responses and chronic and acute toxic effects.

From a chemical point of view, colorants are classified as either pigments or dyes; however, the chemical structures of pigment and dye molecules are frequently the same. In contrast to dyes, pigments are generally tiny particles incorporated in a chemical medium [9]. Pigments may be inorganic or organic, colored, white or black materials.

A persistent tattoo in skin requires the use of water-insoluble colorants in the form of pigments. In the past, tattooists used inorganic pigments that contained heavy metals such as mercury, chromium or cadmium, resulting in the typical colors yellow (cadmium sulphide), mercury sulphide (red), or chromium oxide (green). Two important inorganic pigments are still in use: Carbon Black for black tattoos and titanium dioxide to reduce the color strength of colored pigments (i.e. white) and increase brightness.

Modern Pigments

Nowadays, colored tattoo colorants mainly consist of organic pigments like azo or polycyclic pigments, which are usually obtained from the chemical industry [8]. These pigments comprise two features perfect for use in tattoos: the pigments exhibit brilliant colors, and they are insoluble in aqueous tissue.  The organic pigments still contain metals (Al, Ca, Cd, etc.) and may be combines to create different tones or give brightness to the colors [5] [6].

There are also other chemicals, such as preservatives, stabilizers, pH regulators, thickeners and fragrances including hydrocarbons and phthalates, which have carcinogenic properties and exhibit a detrimental effect on the hormonal balance and the bodies’ normal function [7] [8].

Although they are injected into the human body, tattoo colorants have no pharmaceutical requirements.

Furthermore, the tattoo laser removal process (which is also increasing in popularity together with tattooing) degrades and injects most of the inks from the skin directly into the bloodstream allowing for even higher exposure to the metals contained in the inks during the removal process.

Australian Regulations

Despite increasing evidence regarding the carcinogenic properties and cutaneous complications of tattoo inks, there are limited regulations governing the permanent makeup and tattoo industries within Australia. It’s important to understand that labelling laws did not apply to tattoo ink as the inks are intended for use by professional tattooists and are therefore regarded as workplace chemicals.

A 2016 report (updated in 2018) from the Australian Government’s Department of Health, National Industrial Chemical’s Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS), which investigated several tattoo inks being used in Australia and interviewed various tattoo professionals revealed that out of 49 inks, only four complied with the European standards.

Alarmingly the presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the inks, was also found, even though it is carcinogenic in nature. Other constituents of the inks sampled include antimony, arsenic, lead, mercury selenium, strontium, zinc copper, barium, amines, mercury and several colorants. (If you are interested in this report download by clicking here.)

In January, 2022, in response to this growing evidence, the European Union restricted 4000 substances in tattoo inks and implemented stricter labelling and safety information.

Evidence of Heavy Metals in Tattoo Dyes

Currently, tattoo inks contain mostly organic pigments, although metals are still present, either as chromophores, shading additives, or as contaminants [10].  It should be noted that micropigmentation inks in permanent makeup are still made up of inorganic pigments because of their greater stability against light and heat, their better setting capacity and their larger size, which make their removal difficult [11].

Two Italian studies [12] [13] on the concentrations of metals in tattoo inks available in the Italian market – the first analyzed 13 tattoo inks of various colors identified the following elements in order of abundance: Cr, Ni, Cd, Co and Hg [12]. The second, analyzed 56 tattoo inks finding the main components were Al, Ba, Cu, Fe and Sr. Concentrations of toxic metals such as Cd, Mn, Pb, Sb and V exceeded 1 μg/g. Among the allergenic metals, Cr was the highest, followed by Ni and Co [13].

The Danish Environmental Protection Agency [14] carried out the detection of metals and other elements and the results indicated the presence of Ni in all inks, concentrations of Al were found in many tattoo inks and the presence of increased levels of Ti was also noted.

The analysis of metal content in 226 tattoo inks available in the US market was carried out. In order of prevalence, the elements found were Ti, Fe, Cr, Cu, Zr, Mn, Br, Ni, Nb, Sr, Zn, Ba, Mo, Pb, V, W. Titanium was observed in high concentrations in almost 91% of the samples [15] also levels of Cr, Cu and Pb were found [16] above the limits established in the Resolution ResAP (2008) of the European Council [17].

The distributions of metals found in various tattoo inks sorted by colour are shown in the chart.  Average concentration of each element (ppm) in ink samples by colour. Titanium was excluded as it was found in very high concentrations for nearly every colour. [18]

• Bright green inks were found to contain high concentrations of chromium, manganese, iron, copper, bromine, and barium, as well as traces of lead.
• Yellow inks contain similarly substantial amounts of chromium, iron, nickel, and barium, and traces of lead.
• Blue Inks show high concentrations of copper and bromine.
• Red and brown inks both showed considerable amounts of chromium, iron, nickel and barium.
• Purple was the only colour that showed high concentrations of tungsten, it also had extremely high concentrations of iron and substantial amounts of chromium.
• White and orange inks seemed to contain the fewest metals and these occurred at lower concentrations.

Transport of Tattoo Colorants

Tattoo colorants are a rather complex mixture of various compounds that exhibit different chemical and physical structures. The colorants contain pigment particles of different sizes and molecules, and many of the molecules are in the form of monomers, dimers, or polymers with different solubilities, which influences the extent and the route of transport inside the dermis and to other organs.

In addition to transport, some constituents of the colorants can be metabolized in skin or in the organs to which the compounds were transported. Thus, tattooing of colorants into skin entails a complex reaction of the skin that triggers the immune system and launches manifold transport processes.

After injection into skin, some of the tattoo pigment particles are encapsulated in the dermis. Small particles, admixtures, impurities, as well as educts and products of the pigment molecules may leave the skin directly or can be transported to other anatomical locations in the body via the blood vessel and lymphatic systems. Here they might be stored in or leave the human body via the urinary system or intestines.

An interesting study by the German Federation Institute for Risk Assessment [19] ascertained the pigments travel to the lymph nodes through visual evidence – the lymph nodes were stained by the pigment. The nano-particles now used behave differently to previously studied microparticles – the longer-term effects are unknown, although the German study believed that they cause chronic enlargement of the lymph nodes and ongoing toxic exposure.

Organs such as liver, spleen and kidney could be destinations of constituents of tattoo colorants, depending on the route of transport via the lymphatic or blood vessel systems. A Danish animal study identified black and red pigments in the liver, specifically in Kupffer cells, of mice that were tattooed on the backs, providing further proof of pigment distribution through blood.

It is assumed that especially large particles, which cannot pass the lymph nodes, stay in the dermis. A major mechanism for the disintegration of the particles is the light-induced decomposition of pigment molecules that may continuously occur whenever tattooed skin is exposed to light sources [20]. Other mechanisms, like enzymatic activities or the recurring activation of macrophages, might contribute to pigment particle transport. However, the contribution of other mechanisms is unknown.

The translocation of tattoo particles from skin to lymph nodes is shown above. Upon injection of tattoo inks, particles can be either passively transported via blood and lymph fluids or phagocytized by immune cells and subsequently deposited in regional lymph nodes. After healing, particles are present in the dermis and in the sinusoids of the draining lymph nodes. [19]

Quantity of Pigments

Approximately 2.5mg of pigments is deposited inside the skin per square centimetre of tattoo. An upper arm tattoo of 400 cm², will give a body load of 1g of particles. Highly tattooed people could carry up to 40 g of pigment within their body. The size, colour and density of the tattoo will determine the amount of possible harmful substances as well as the portion of hazardous decomposition products that chronically affect skin, lymph nodes and organs [21].

Understanding Health Risks

• Tattoo Colours
  Tattoo inks come in various types, including those derived from organic and inorganic compounds. Certain ink colours, especially red, yellow, green, and blue, often contain heavy metal compounds, including lead, cadmium, mercury, and chromium.
• Absorption and Distribution
  Heavy metals in tattoo inks can be absorbed through the compromised skin barrier during tattooing. Once absorbed, they may distribute to various organs through the bloodstream.
• Allergies and Skin Contact Dermatitis
  Some metals are known to trigger allergic reactions. Zinc, Nickel, Thallium [22] and Tungsten are known to cause skin irritations including rash, bumps, redness, skin colour changes, itchiness etc as a result of Tattoos.
• Laser Tattoo Removal and Heavy Metal Release
  Laser tattoo removal involves breaking down tattoo pigments into smaller particles, which may release heavy metals into the bloodstream and surrounding tissues. A 2019 study in Lasers in Surgery and Medicine found that laser irradiation of tattoo pigments released heavy metals, including nickel and chromium, into the surrounding tissue [23].
• Proof of Heavy Metal Absorption in Post-Mortem Studies
  Post-mortem analyses of people with tattoos have revealed heavy metal deposits in various organs and tissues, suggesting systemic absorption. A 2019 study published in the Archives of Toxicology detected measurable levels of heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, in multiple organs, including the liver and kidneys, of individuals with tattoos. [24]

Safer Tattoo Ink Alternatives

There is emerging research explores the development of organic and vegan tattoo inks that minimize heavy metal content and potential health risks.

Tattoo Ink Regulations

Despite increasing evidence of heavy metal risks in tattoo inks, regulations for the tattoo industry in Australia and New Zealand are limited and insufficient. It is essential to raise awareness and advocate for stricter regulations to safeguard public health and well-being.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

Tattoos, especially those containing heavy metals, can pose risks during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The presence of metals and other chemicals in some inks may prevent the administration of an epidural anaesthetic during childbirth. Moreover, new tattoos during pregnancy or breastfeeding may increase the mother’s exposure to toxic metals, potentially affecting the foetus or baby [25].

Hair Tissue Minerals Analysis (HTMA) Case Study

A case study of a 28-year-old female with numerous tattoos and piercings revealed high levels of various toxic minerals.  The patient suffered “unbearable itchiness”, red welts, skin lesions that worsened when she was hot or sweating, or eating certain foods. She was highly stressed, very fatigued, and confused by explanations given by previous practitioners and therapy.

The HTMA report identified Tungsten, Zirconium, Bismuth, Barium, and Thallium as well as low levels of Arsenic, Mercury, and Aluminium. The patient had underactive adrenals, and required liver support. This case study emphasizes the need for understanding the toxic minerals present in tattoos and their potential health implications, and the ongoing importance of HTMA for clinical assessment.

The recommendations based on her overall nutritional and heavy metal profile, were to increase the Calcium, Copper, Selenium and Vitamin E. Educating the client on the toxic minerals in her tattoos was also advised!

Conclusion

Tattoos remain a beloved art form, but the presence of heavy metal tints in tattoo inks raises legitimate health concerns. Evidence suggests heavy metal absorption during tattoo application and release during removal. As the tattoo industry advances, cooperation between researchers, health authorities, and tattoo artists is crucial to establish evidence-based guidelines that prioritize consumer safety.

There is a need to foster awareness of heavy metals and chemicals within pigments used in tattoos. Informed decision-making, safer tattoo ink alternatives, and proactive regulation may assist in mitigating potential health risks.

References

1. McCrindle Research Pty Ltd, Tattoos in Australia: Perceptions, Trends and Regrets (November 2019). Available at https://2qean3b1jjd1s87812ool5ji-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/Media-Release_Tattoo-perceptions-trend-andregrets_Nov2020-1.pdf
2. Islam PS, Chang C, Selmi C, Generali E, Huntley A, Teuber SS, Gershwin ME. Medical Complications of Tattoos: A Comprehensive Review. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2016 Apr;50(2):273-86. doi: 10.1007/s12016-016-8532-0. PMID: 26940693.
3. Kluger N, Koljonen V. Tattoos, inks, and cancer. Lancet Oncol. 2012 Apr;13(4):e161-8. doi: 10.1016/S1470-2045(11)70340-0. Epub 2012 Mar 30. PMID: 22469126.
4. Ricci F, Paradisi A, Maier SA, Kovacs M, Podda M, Peris K, Abeni D. Melanoma and tattoos: a case report and review of the literature. Eur J Dermatol. 2018 Feb 1;28(1):50-55. doi: 10.1684/ejd.2017.3184. PMID: 29171408.
5. Forte, G., Pretucci, F., Cristaudo, A. and Bocca, B. (2009) Market Survey on Toxic Metals Contained in Tattoo Inks. Science of the Total Environment, 407, 5997-6002. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.08.034
6. Kluger, N. and Koljonen, V. (2012) Tattoos, Inks, and Cancer. The Lancet Oncology, 13, 161-168.
7. Vasold, R., Engel, E., König, B., Landthaler, M. and Bäumler, W. (2008) Health Risks of Tattoo Colors. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, 391, 9-13.https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-008-1978-z
8. Hogsberg T, Loeschner K, Lof D, Serup J. Tattoo inks in general usage contain nanoparticles. Br J Dermatol. 2011;165(6): 1210-8, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2133.2011.10561.x.
9. Serup J, Baumler W, editors. Diagnosis and Therapy of Tattoo Complications. With Atlas of Illustrative Cases. Curr Probl Dermatol. 2017;52:1-17, https://doi.org/10.1159/000453379.
10. Kluger, N. and Koljonen, V. (2012) Tattoos, Inks, and Cancer. The Lancet Oncology, 13, 161-168.
11. Silvestre, S. (2014) Aportación al Estudio de las tintas para tatuar. Revisión Bibliográfica. Máster Universitario en Técnicas Avanzadas de Estética y Láser. Universidad Cardenal Herrera, Valencia.
12. 12. Forte, G., Pretucci, F., Cristaudo, A. and Bocca, B. (2009) Quantification of Sensitizing Metals in Tattooing Pigments by SF-ICP-MS Technique. The Open Chemical and Biomedical Methods Journal, 2, 42-47. https://doi.org/10.2174/1875038900902020042
13. 13. Forte, G., Pretucci, F., Cristaudo, A. and Bocca, B. (2009) Market Survey on Toxic Metals Contained in Tattoo Inks. Science of the Total Environment, 407, 5997-6002. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2009.08.034
14. 14. Agencia de Protección Ambiental Danesa—Miljøstyrelsen (2012) Chemical Substances in Tattoo Ink: Survey of Chemical Substances in Consumer Products (Kortlægningafkemiskestoffer i forbrugerprodukter).
15. Tighe, M., Libby, D., Dorn, S., Hosmer, J. and Peaslee, G. (2017) A Survey of Metals Found in Tattoo Inks. Journal of Environmental Protection, 8, 1243-1253.https://doi.org/10.4236/jep.2017.811077
16. Manso, M., et al. (2018) Assessment of Toxic Metals and Hazardous Substances in Tattoo Inks Using Sy-XRF, AAS, and Raman Spectroscopy. Biological Trace Element Research, 187, 596-601. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12011-018-1406-y
17. Council of Europe (2018) ResAP(2008)1. On Requirements and Criteria for the Safety of Tattoos and Permanent Make-Up (Superseding Resolution ResAP (2003)
18. Tighe, Meghanne & Libby, D. & Dorn, Stanna & Hosmer, Jeffrey & Peaslee, Graham. (2017). A Survey of Metals Found in Tattoo Inks. Journal of Environmental Protection. 08. 1243-1253. 10.4236/jep.2017.811077.
19. Schreiver, I., Hesse, B., Seim, C. et al.Synchrotron-based ν-XRF mapping and μ-FTIR microscopy enable to look into the fate and effects of tattoo pigments in human skin. Sci Rep7, 11395 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-11721-z
20. Bäumler W. Chemical hazard of tattoo colorants. Presse Med. 2020 Dec;49(4):104046. doi: 10.1016/j.lpm.2020.104046. Epub 2020 Aug 5. PMID: 32768614.
21. Schreiver, Ines & Luch, Andreas. (2016). At the dark end of the rainbow: data gaps in tattoo toxicology. Archives of Toxicology. 90. 10.1007/s00204-016-1740-9.
22. 22. Karbowska, Bozena, et al. “Thallium in colour tattoo inks: Risk associated with Tattooing.” Medycyna Pracy, vol. 71, no. 4, July-Aug. 2020, pp. 405+.
23. Madi M, et al. Elemental content of tattooed skin: a first quantification study using synchrotron X-ray fluorescence. Lasers Surg Med. 2019 Feb; 51(2): 158-164.
24. Dittmann J, et al. Element-specific analysis of tattooed skin by synchrotron X-ray fluorescence to identify heavy metal exposure. Arch Toxicol. 2019 May; 93(5): 1307-1315.
25. Juhas E, English JC 3rd. Tattoo-associated complications. J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2013 Apr;26(2):125-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jpag.2012.08.005. Epub 2012 Dec 31. PMID: 23287600.

Hair Testing For Key Metals and Minerals

About Hair Analysis – HTMA

Hair testing looks at key metals and minerals. Hair is a site of excretion for essential, nonessential and potentially toxic elements. In general, the amount of an element that is irreversibly incorporated into growing hair is proportional to the level of the element in other body tissues. Hair testing provides an indirect screening test for physiological excess, deficiency or maldistribution of elements in the body. Clinical research indicates that hair levels of specific elements, particularly potentially toxic elements such as cadmium, mercury, lead and arsenic, are highly correlated with pathological disorders. For such elements, levels in hair may be more indicative of body stores than the levels in blood and urine.

All screening tests have limitations that must be taken into consideration. Scalp hair is vulnerable to external contamination by water, hair treatments and products. Likewise, some hair treatments (e.g. permanent solutions, dyes, and bleach) can strip hair of minerals resulting in falsely low values. There are differences in the results among laboratory facilities.

In a JAMA article in January 2001, hair samples were sent to several labs with widely variable results. The results depend on the technique used, the preparation of the hair sample but the lab, and good quality controls. Careful consideration of the limitations must be made in the interpretation of results of hair analysis. The data that hair analysis do provide should be considered in conjunction with symptoms, diet analysis, occupation and lifestyle, physical examination and the results of other laboratory tests.

There is virtually no situation that hair analysis alone is diagnostic.
Using the hair analysis for treatment based solely on the results of this screening test is not prudent. However, accepting these limitations, hair analysis may provide useful insights into the biochemical and hormonal condition of the body.

Toxic Metals and Hair Testing

Aluminum (Al)
The hair levels reflect past or chronic exposure to this element. The level in hair is a reliable indicator of assimilation of this element, provided that hair preparations or scissors have not added aluminum to the hair. Aluminum is a nonessential element that can be toxic if excessively assimilated into cells. Hair is easily contaminated with aluminum from hair treatment and possibly by wash water if it is high in aluminum content.

Aluminum can impair cellular energy transfer processes by interfering with phosphate and ATP metabolism. Excess aluminum can inhibit the formation of alpha-keto glutarate and result in toxic levels of ammonia in tissues. Aluminum can bond to phosphorylated bases on DNA and disrupt protein synthesis and catabolism. Neuronal cells are susceptible to long term accumulation of aluminum, and aluminum bonding to phosphate can inhibit normal catabolism of neuronal filaments in the CNS. Correlation of elevated aluminum with degenerative dementia and Alzheimer’s disease has been documented. Excessive dietary aluminum can also form insoluble aluminum phosphates in the GI tract and may lead to hypophosphatemia.

Symptoms of elevated aluminum may include fatigue, headache and signs of phosphate depletion. However, low level aluminum exposures may not provoke any immediate symptoms. Aluminum excess should be considered when symptoms of presenile dementia or Alzheimer’s disease are observed. Hair aluminum is commonly elevated in children and adults with low zinc and behavioral/learning disorders such as ADD, ADHD and autism. Individuals with renal problems or on renal dialysis may have elevated aluminum. Aluminum has neurotoxic effects at high levels, but low levels of accumulation may not illicit immediate symptoms.

Possible sources of Aluminum include some antacid medications, aluminum cookware, baking powder, processed cheese, drinking water, and antiperspirant components that may be absorbed. Many colloidal mineral products have very high levels of aluminum according to analyses performed at DDI laboratories. In fact, an independent lab tested five major brands of colloidal minerals and each showed a substantial level of aluminum. In two of the five samples, aluminum or a toxic metal was the highest concentration of any of the minerals found!

Aluminum has been reported to be effectively complexed and excreted with silicon, a complex of malic acid and magnesium, and (DDI clients), and acetoacetic acid (Deitrich Klinghardt, M.D.). No other nutrients beside magnesium and silicon have protective effects against aluminum toxicity.

A urine test can be used to corroborate aluminum exposure.

Antimony (Sb)
The hair levels reflect past or chronic skin exposure, inhalation or ingestion of this element. Hair is a preferred tissue for analysis of antimony exposure and body burden. Elevated hair antimony levels have been noted as long as a year after exposure.

Antimony is a nonessential element considered by some to be more toxic than arsenic, but others say it is less toxic. Like arsenic, Antimony has a high affinity for sulfhydryl groups on many enzymes. Antimony is conjugated with glutathione and excreted in urine and feces. Therefore, excessive exposure to antimony has the potential to deplete intracellular glutathione pools. Antimony’s deposition in body tissues and its detrimental effects depend upon the oxidation state of the element. Antimony+3 affects liver functions, impairs enzymes, and may interfere with sulfur chemistry. If antimony impairs phosphofructokinase (PFK), then purine metabolism may be disrupted, resulting in elevated blood and/or urine levels of hypoxanthine, uric acid and possibly ammonia. Antimony+5 deposits in bone, kidney, and in organs of the endocrine system. “Antimony spots” may result from skin contact with antimony salts and vapors. Symptoms can be variable, including fatigue, myopathy (muscle aches and inflammation), hypotension, angina and immune dysregulation.

Early signs of Antimony excess include: fatigue, muscle weakness, myopathy, nausea, low back pain, headache, and metallic taste. Later symptoms include hemolytic anemia, myoglobinuria, hematuria and renal failure. Trans-dermal absorption can lead to “antimony spots” which resemble chicken pox. Respiratory tissue irritation may result from inhalation of antimony particles or dust.

Food and smoking are the usual sources of antimony. Thus cigarette smoke can externally contaminate hair, as well as contribute to uptake via inhalation. Gunpowder (ammunition) often contains antimony. Firearm enthusiasts often have elevated levels of antimony in hair. Other possible sources are textile industry, metal alloys, and some anti-helminthic and anti-protozoal drugs. Antimony is also used in the manufacture of paints, glass, ceramics, solder, batteries, bearing metals and semiconductors.

A confirmatory test for recent or current exposure is the measurement of Antimony in the urine.

Arsenic (As)
The hair levels correlate with past or chronic exposure or ingestion. Excessive arsenic in cells can inhibit mitochondrial processes, especially those related to cofactor activity of lipoic acid. Typical early symptoms of arsenic excess include fatigue, dermatitis, increased salivation and possibly peripheral paresthesias with tingling or numbness. More advanced symptoms or chronic exposures can lead to muscular weakness, hair loss, hypopigmentation of skin, anemia with hemolysis and neuronal degeneration. Even at low levels, arsenic may cause digestive problems, fatigue and skin rashes.

Bismuth (Bi)
The hair levels has not correlated bismuth exposure with hair bismuth levels, therefore, hair bismuth levels are measured primarily for investigational purposes. Bismuth is a non-essential element of low toxicity. However, excessive intake of insoluble, inorganic bismuth containing compounds can cause nephrotoxicity and encephalopathy. Absorption is dependent upon solubility of the bismuth compound, with insoluble bismuth excreted in the feces while soluble forms are excreted in the urine.

Sources of Bismuth include: cosmetics (lipstick), Bismuth containing medications such as ranitidine Bismuth-citrate, antacids (Pepto Bismol), pigments used in colored glass and ceramics, dental cement, and dry cell battery electrodes.

Symptoms of moderate bismuth toxicity include: constipation or bowel irregularity, foul breath,Cv blue/black gum line, and malaise. High levels of bismuth accumulation can result in nephrotoxicity (nephrosis, proteinuria) and neurotoxicity (tremor, memory loss, myoclonic jerks, dysarthria, and dementia).

Urine elements analysis can be used to corroborate bismuth absorption for a period of days or a few weeks after the exposure.

Dithiol chelating/complexing agents (DMPS, DMSA) markedly reduced bismuth levels in liver and kidneys, and increased Bismuth in urine in animal studies (J. Lab. Clin. Med.; 119:529-537,1992). In the same study, EDTA increased brain bismuth levels.

Cadmium (Cd)
The hair levels correlate with body burden and with past or chronic ingestion of this element. Cadmium is considered a toxic heavy metal with no known metabolic function in the body. Cadmium exerts toxic effects by inhibiting sulfur-bearing enzymes and by displacing enzyme bound zinc or copper. In cells, cadmium can inhibit gluconeogenesis and phosphorylation processes. Cadmium’s deleterious effects may be slow and not recognized for years before manifestations are apparent. Excessive body burden of cadmium is associated with high blood pressure (hypertension) and impaired renal transport with proteinuria and urinary wasting of beta 2-microglobulin.

Chronic cadmium excess can lead to microcytic, hypochromic anemia. Cadmium can also adversely affect heart, arterial walls, bone and testes. Cadmium excess is also commonly associated with fatigue, weight loss, osteomalacia, and lumbar pain. Inhalation of cadmium salts or vapors may produce emphysema. In children, elevated cadmium has been correlated with lowered IQ.

According to Science News, trace amounts of cadmium can mimic estrogen’s effects on cells and alter the reproductive system of females (Nature Medicine 08/03). The implications for hormone related malignancy such as breast cancer are even more concerning because cadmium has been shown to disrupt DNA repair (Nature Genetics 07/03).

Smoking and high sugar diets appear to increase cadmium levels. Cadmium is found in varying amounts in foods, from .04 pg/g for some fruits to 3-5 pg/g in some oysters and anchovies. Cigarette smoking significantly increases cadmium intake. Refined carbohydrates have very little zinc in relation to the Cadmium. Cadmium absorption is reduced by zinc, calciumand selenium.

If hair zinc is not abnormal, external contamination from permanent solutions, dyes, bleach, and some hair sprays may have caused the elevated hair cadmium level. A confirming test for elevated body burden of cadmium is urine analysis following administration of an appropriate chelating agent such as EDTA or sulfhydryl agents (DMSA, D-Penicillamine, DMPS).

Lead (Pb)
They hair levels correlate with body tissue deposition levels (bone, aorta, liver, kidney) and also correlate with blood levels if the exposure is periodic or chronic. At the cellular level, lead interferes with membrane transport processes and with enzyme functions because it is able to bond to many chemically active sites. The interaction of lead with sulfhydryl (SH) sites causes most of the toxic effects which include impaired heme synthesis, inhibition of erythrocyte Na/K ATPase, diminished RBC glutathione, shortened RBC life span, impaired synthesis of RNA, DNA and protein and impaired metabolism of vitamin D. Lead may also affect the body’s ability to utilize the essential elements calcium, magnesium, and zinc.

Lead is toxic to nerves and at moderate levels of body burden; lead may have adverse effects on memory, cognitive function, and nerve conduction. Children with hair lead levels greater than 1 pg/g have been reported to have a higher incidence of hyperactivity than those with less than 1 pg/g. Children with hair lead levels above 3 pg/g have been reported to have more learning problems than those with less than 3 pg/g.

Lead is also toxic to kidneys resulting in disordered renal transport with uricemia (possibly gout), hyperaminoaciduria, glycosuria and phosphaturia. Excess body burden of lead is often associated with fatigue, headaches, loss of appetite, insomnia, nervousness, anemia, weight loss, decreased nerve conduction and possibly motor neuron disorders.

Hair is sensitive to external contamination with certain hair preparations, especially dyes and darkening agents, e.g. “Grecian Formula.” Although these agents can cause contamination, some of the lead is absorbed into body burden. Hair levels of iron, boron, calcium, and zinc are often concomitantly elevated with lead burden.

Lead exposure includes welding, old leaded paint (chips/dust), drinking water, some fertilizers, industrial pollution, lead-glazed pottery, and newsprint.

Detoxification therapy by means of chelation results in transient increases in hair lead. Eventually, the hair lead level will normalize after detoxification is complete.

Confirmatory tests for lead excess are urine elements analysis following provocation with intravenous EDTA, DMPS, or oral DMSA. Whole blood analysis for lead only reflects recent or ongoing exposures and may not correlate with total body burden. Increased blood or urine protoporphyrins is a finding consistent with lead excess, but may occur with other toxic elements as well.

Zinc, iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin E, and sulfur amino acids have protective effects.

Nickel (Ni)
The hair levels correlate with chronic exposures and ingestion. Hair is sensitive to external contamination with nickel. Some shampoos and many hair perm dye bleach products place nickel into the hair. In blood, nickel binds to albumin, globulins and amino acids, and is deposited in leukocytes. In cells, it binds to mitochondrial and cytosolic proteins. In so doing, it can displace zinc and copper, thereby activating, inhibiting, or dysregulating enzymes. A nickel exposure may hypersensitize the immune system, resulting in inflammatory responses to many environmental substances to which there was formerly little or no response.

Possible symptoms of nickel excess include panallergy with rhinitis, sinusitis, conjunctivitis and asthma. Other symptoms may include vertigo, weakness and fatigue, nausea and headache. Nickel contact allergy (“nickel itch”) or contact dermatitis is not necessarily reflected by elevated hair nickel.

Tin (T)
Tin hair levels correlate with past or chronic exposure. Inorganic tin is mildly toxic and may impair liver function by inhibition of the P-450 mixed function oxidase enzyme system. Hence, tin can have a synergistic effect of rendering organic chemical xenobiotics or drugs more difficult to detoxify.

Organic tin compounds – dimethyl tin, dialkyl tin, triphenyl tin – are biocidal and can be severely toxic. Exposure to organic tin compounds may produce headache, muscle ataxia, general fatigue, vertigo and reduced sense of smell. Kidney damage may also result. Erythrocyte hemolysis, anemia and subnormal lymphocytes may occur, causing immune dysfunction. Other conditions include hyperglycemia, lesions in testes and ovaries, and inflammation or congestion of binary ducts.

Uranium (U)
The hair levels reflect past or chronic ingestion. Most exposure comes from natural uranium in ground and drinking water. The U238 isotope of uranium is more than 99% of naturally occurring uranium. Radioactivity danger from trace quantities of natural uranium is slight because of its very long half life (billions of years). The finding of elevated U238 in this test does not imply nor does it rule out exposure to enriched uranium fuel (U235) or to other radioactive isotopes that may be radiation hazards. The major toxicological concern of U238 excess is biochemical rather than radiochemical. Uranyl cations bind tenaciously to protein, nucleotides, and bone, where it substitutes for calcium.

Uranium is a reactive element that is able to combine with and affect the metabolisms of: lactate, citrate, pyruvate, carbonate and phosphate. Kidney and bone are the primary sites of uranium accumulation, but it also deposits in the liver and spleen. The primary symptom of low level chronic uranium excess (hair levels >0.5 ppm) is chronic fatigue. Possible conditions from more severe uranium contamination include damage to kidney glomeruli with disordered renal transport (proteinuria, albuminuria, and hyperaminoaciduria) and hematopoiesis in bone marrow. Published data are sparse, but there appears to be a correlation between uranium exposure, kidney damage and all forms of cancer.

Although hair is sensitive to external contamination with uranium by shampoos or hair products, the levels of uranium in hair usually reflect levels of uranium in other tissues.

Uranium is a nonessential element that is very abundant in rock, particularly granite. It is present at widely varying levels in ground (drinking) water, root vegetables, and present in high phosphate fertilizers. Other sources of include ceramics, some colored glass, many household products (uranyl acetate) and tailings from uranium mines.

Because uranium is rapidly cleared from blood and deposited in tissues, urine analysis rather than blood analysis may need to be performed to confirm excess exposure to uranium.

Minerals In A Hair Test

Calcium (Ca)
The hair levels correlate with long term dietary intake, absorption from the GI tract and retention. The hair calcium level does not necessarily reflect current serum calcium or calcium ion concentrations and may not have a linear or direct relationship with tissue deposition or bone density. The reported level of hair calcium may reflect external contamination from hair preparations, which contribute to the measured level. Hair is not particularly valuable for assessing calcium. It may be useful as part of ratios, however.

Copper (Cu)
Three hair levels may be indicative of excess copper in the body. Medical conditions that may be associated with excess copper include: biliary obstruction (reduced ability to excrete copper), liver disease (hepatitis or cirrhosis), and renal dysfunction.

Symptoms associated with excess copper accumulation are muscle and joint pain, depression, irritability, tremor, hemolytic anemia, learning disabilities, and behavioral disorders.

However, it is important first to rule out contamination from permanent solutions, dyes, bleaches, swimming pool/hot tub water, and washing hair in acidic water carried through copper pipes. In the case of contamination from hair preparations, other elements (aluminum, silver, nickel, titanium) are usually also elevated.

Sources of excessive copper include contaminated food or drinking water, excessive copper supplementation, and occupational or environmental exposures. Insufficient intake of competitively absorbed elements such as zinc or molybdenum can lead to, or worsen copper excess.

Confirmatory tests for copper excess are a comparison of copper in pre vs. post provocation (D-Penicillamine, DMPS) urine elements tests and a whole blood elements analysis. Ceruloplasmin can also be useful in copper retention syndromes.

Zinc (Zn)
The hair levels when low correlate with low tissue levels and possible inadequate zinc function. Zinc is an essential element that is required in numerous biochemical processes including protein, nucleic acid and energy metabolism. Zinc is an obligatory co-factor for numerous enzymes including alcohol dehydrogenase, carbonic anhydrase, and superoxide dismutase. Low hair zinc may be the result of poor dietary intake, digestive dysfunction, malabsorption syndromes, chronic diarrhea, or excessive tissue levels of copper or iron.

Many possible dysfunctional conditions may be associated with zinc inadequacy. These include impaired taste or smell, poor night vision, fatigue, skin disease (dermatoses), sexual dysfunction, growth retardation in children and (partial) alopecia. Conditions which have been associated with low hair zinc include maldigestion, celiac disease, chronic hepatitis, sickle cell anemia, kidney dialysis, cancer, anorexia, obesity and Wilson’s disease.

Low hair zinc has also been noted in premature birth babies and their mothers, as well as mothers of infants with spina bifida. Hair zinc is commonly low in diabetics, and in association with ADD/ADHD and autism (DDI observation).

Reported symptoms of zinc deficiency include: fatigue, apathy, hypochlorhydria, decreased vision and dysgeusia, anorexia, anemia, dermatitis, weak/brittle nails and hair, white spots on nails, alopecia, impaired would healing, sexual dysfunction (males), and hypogonadism.

Low hair zinc is very likely to be indicative of low zinc in whole blood, red blood cells, and other tissues. Hair analysis is a good screen for provided that the hair sample has not been chemically treated (permanent solutions, dyes, and bleaches); such hair treatments can significantly lower the level of zinc in hair.

Zinc competes for absorption with copper and iron. Cadmium, lead and mercury are potent zinc antagonists. Zinc deficiency can be caused by malabsorption, chelating agents, poor diet, excessive use of alcohol or diuretics, metabolic disorder of metallothionein metabolism, surgery, and burns. Hair levels of zinc (copper and selenium) were decreased in human subjects after switching from a mixed to a lactovegetarian diet (Am. J. Clin. Nutr.; 55:885-90,1992).

Other laboratory tests to confirm zinc status are whole blood or packed red blood cell elements analysis, and urine amino acid analysis (zinc dependent peptidase activity).

Manganese (Mn)
The hair levels may reflect external contamination from hair preparations that contribute to the measured level.

Chromium (Cr)
The hair levels have been reported to correspond to nutritional and physiological status. However, hair chromium occasionally reflects contamination from hair preparations, which contribute to the measured level.

Cobalt (Co)
The hair levels occasionally reflect external contamination from hair preparation products. Occupational or environmental exposures to cobalt dusts or chemicals may cause exogenous contamination.

Molybdenum (Mo)
The hair levels reflect ingestion and tissue levels, but may not reflect its function as an enzyme activator. Occupational or environmental exposures to molybdenum are an unusual occurrence, although copper deficiency can increase molybdenum uptake and retention. Molybdenum excess may result in anorexia, anemia and headache. Elevated molybdenum may cause arthritic symptoms if copper is deficient.

Boron (B)
The hair levels suggest long-term ingestion. Ingested boron is well absorbed into the blood stream and rapidly deposited in tissues (brain, bone, heart, spleen, kidney, liver, testicles). Effects of excess boron depend strongly upon chemical form and mode of exposure. Elemental boron has low toxicity while borates and boranes can have cumulative neurotoxic effects. Boranes interfere with pyridoxal phosphate-dependent metabolic steps for amino acids. Symptoms may include dizziness, muscular tremors and incoordination.

Boron is sensitive to contamination from hair preparation products, which may contribute to the measured level of hair boron. Additionally, increased body burdens of toxic elements or organic chemicals are observed * to raise hair boron levels, without evidence of boron excess itself. Thus, elevated boron may be due to a combination of factors – endogenous excess, external contamination, and maldistribution secondary to toxic excesses.

Iodine (I)
The hair levels are indicative of past ingestion of iodine and of health conditions relating to deficiency or excess. The reported iodine level may include some external contamination by hair preparation products.

Selenium (Se)
The hair levels may reflect external contamination from selenium containing shampoos, which can contribute to the measured level.

Sulfur (S)
The hair levels can reflect the status of important sulfur bearing amino acids: cysteine, cystine, and taurine. However, hair sulfur is susceptible to external influences, particularly from hair straightener products, that may significantly lower sulfur content, or hair conditioning or permanent treatments, which raise it.

Other elements in hair do not correlate with blood or other tissue levels, but they can be markers for contamination or may have special meaning:

Sodium (Na)
The hair levels of sodium are very subject to external contamination by shampoos and hair treatment products, which may contribute to the measured levels. Sodium is an essential element that is classified as an extracellular electrolyte. High hair sodium may have no clinical significance or it may be the result of an electrolyte imbalance. A possible imbalance for which high hair sodium is a consistent finding is adrenocortical hyperactivity. Blood testing for sodium and electrolyte levels is much more diagnostic and indicative of status.

Potassium (K)
The hair levels of potassium are less subject to external contamination. As with hair sodium, hair potassium varies with metabolic, homeostatic and stress conditions. High hair potassium is not necessarily reflective of dietary intake or nutrient status. However, elevated hair potassium may be reflective of metabolic disorders associated with exposure to potentially toxic elements. Potassium is an intracellular electrolyte. Hair is occasionally contaminated with potassium from some shampoos. Appropriate tests for potassium include measurements of packed red blood cells and serum potassium, sodium/potassium ratios, measurement of urine potassium and sodium/potassium ratio; and an assessment of adrenocortical function.

Rubidium (Rb)
This is a relatively benign element that typically parallels the potassium level. It varies according to levels found in water supplies. At extremely high levels, Rubidium may compete with potassium for activity in the cellular potassium pump; in practical terms this is rarely seen. Hair iron is not usually reflective of iron status but can be a marker for external contamination.

Iron (Fe)
Elevated hair iron may be found in smokers, x- ray technicians and individuals with certain forms of cancer. Notably low or high hair phosphorus is consistent with abnormal calcium and/or magnesium metabolism.

Phosphorus (P)
Hair phosphorus also is typically elevated with kidney dialysis, and appears to be depressed in chronic hepatitis. Hair phosphorus is seldom altered by external influences. Hair is extremely susceptible to contamination with titanium from hair treatment products. Most common forms of titanium are inert, insoluble and nontoxic, especially titanium dioxide pigment. Titanium can be used as an indicator for external contamination of hair with various elements.

Vanadium (V)
High levels of vanadium in hair may be indicative of excess absorption of the element. It is well established that excess vanadium can have toxic effects in humans. Symptoms of vanadium toxicity vary with chemical form and route of absorption. Inhalation of excess vanadium may produce respiratory irritation and bronchitis. Excess ingestion of vanadium can result in decreased appetite, depressed growth, diarrhea/gastrointestinal disturbances, nephrotoxic and hematotoxic effects. Pallor, diarrhea, and green tongue are early signs of excess vanadium and have been reported in human subjects consuming about 20 mg V/day (Modern Nutrition in Health and Disease, 8th edition, eds. Shils, M., Olson, J., and Mosha, S., 1994). Although it appears that vanadium may have essential functions, over zealous supplementation is not warranted.

Excess levels of vanadium in the body can result from chronic consumption of fish, shrimp, crabs, and oysters derived from water near offshore oil rigs (Metals in Clinical and Analytical Chemistry, 1994). Environmental sources of vanadium include: processing of mineral ores, phosphate fertilizers, combustion of oil and coal, production of steel, and chemicals used in the fixation of dyes and print.

Confirmatory tests for excess vanadium are red blood cell elements analysis, and urine vanadium which reflects recent intake.

Adrenal Burn Out

Adrenal burn out  is very common in modern society!
The adrenals become exhausted due to chronic stress, environmental toxins, birth control use, heavy metal exposures and vaccinations.

Who Is Most Prone To Adrenal Exhaustion?

Women in general are often more prone to adrenal fatigue than men.  But anyone at any age can suffer from adrenal burnout, including infants and children. Those with slow oxidation (also known as a slow metabolic rate), especially very slow oxidation are considered to be in “burnt out”. 

The Adrenal Burn Out Markers

• The ideal ratio of calcium to potassium ratio is about 4/1.
• Those slow oxidizers with high calcium, also known as a “calcium shell” may overlap with very slow oxidation, or may be a separate burnout indicator.
• A sodium to potassium ratio less than about 2.5/1 is another ratio indicating an adrenal burn out.  When a sodium to potassium ratio is very low, then adrenal exhaustion is usually more severe.
• Still another sign of adrenal burn out is having a s sodium level less than about 11 mg%.
• Having a potassium level less than about 5 mg% is yet another sign of that the adrenals are exhausted.
• The pattern of calcium, magnesium, sodium and potassium – known as an “all 4 low pattern” as four low macrominerals is considered to be double burnout pattern.
• When a phosphorus level less than 12 mg%, this is yet another adrenal burn out pattern.  Phosphorus less than 10 mg%  may be a double burnout indicator.

Poor Eliminators and Adrenal Burn Out

• Poor eliminators are those with three (3) very low metal readings and this is a burnout indicator.
• Poor eliminator patterns with six  (6) very low metal reading are a double burnout indicator.  The minerals that should be eliminating to look for are copper, iron, manganese, lead, mercury, cadmium, arsenic, aluminum and nickel.

Mineral and Vitamin Relationships Guide

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Read About Mineral Wheels

There are key mineral to mineral and vitamin to mineral relationships that impact each other and normal body functions.  Minerals must be in proper balance to maintain optimum functions in the body.

Mineral to Mineral Relationships

• Calcium: Essential synergists are copper and magnesium. Essential antagonists are potassium, sodium risers such as manganese and iron.
• Copper: raises sodium, raises calcium, lowers potassium, lowers zinc.
• Chromium: raises sodium, assists with glucose intolerance.
• Magnesium: lower sodium, lowers calcium, raises potassium
• Iron: raises sodium, speeds up oxidation rate.
• Magnesium: lowers sodium, lowers calcium, raises potassium.
• Manganese: raises sodium, lowers magnesium, needed for adrenals, energy and cholesterol synthesis.
• Potassium: lowers calcium, raises zinc also speeds up metabolism.
• Zinc: lowers sodium, lowers cadmium, lowers copper, raises potassium.

Vitamin to Mineral Relationships

• Vitamin A: lowers sodium.
• Vitamin A and D: increase calcium update from the intestinal tract.
• Vitamin B1, B3, B5, B6: speeds up oxidation rate by their affect on glycogenesis and the Krebs cycle which intern lowers calcium levels.
• Vitamin B2, B12, choline and inositol: slows down oxidation rate.
• Vitamin C: raises sodium, lowers copper, speeds up oxidation rate, enhances adrenal activity. Increases adrenal activity which results in a lower calcium level.
• Vitamin D: raises calcium absorption in the gut, lowers potassium, slows the metabolic rate.
  
• Vitamin E: raises sodium. Preserves mitochondria enzymes required for Krebs cycle. Vitamin E enhances  adrenal and thyroid function.
• Vitamin F: assists in increasing cell membrane permeability which enhances the effect of thyroid hormone speeds up the rate of metabolism.

Other Impacts On Various Minerals

• Acute stress stimulates the sympathetic nervous system which increases thyroid in a grain of glandular activity and the effect is a drop in calcium levels.
• Adrenal exhaustion results in lower sodium and potassium levels. It efficiency of these monovalent solvent elements. This allows calcium and magnesium to accumulate – bio unavailable –  in the soft tissues.
• Cadmium displaces calcium by raising sodium levels.
• Dietary phytates are in organic “compounds that are found mostly in greens that bind calcium in the gut phytates reduce calcium absorption from the gut.
• High protein diets increase the rate of metabolism and increase calcium excretion in the urine. High-fat diet slows metabolism causing calcium levels to rise and it becomes bio unavailable.
• Lead competes with calcium for intestinal absorption and for binding sites in the bones live displaces calcium.
• Low gastric acidity  adequate stomach acid is required to ionize calcium in order to absorb calcium in the gut.
• Oxalic acid is found mainly in tea and certain fruits. Oxalic acid forms in soluble calcium compounds which prevents calcium absorption from the gut.

Toxic Mineral Ratios and Preferred Mineral Ratios

Heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium interfere with normal metabolic processes because they displace nutritional minerals, and poison enzyme functions by their attachment to proteins.  Everyone is exposed to toxic heavy metals and has measurable levels within their bodies. The ratio of the protective nutrient mineral relative to the toxic heavy metal is important.

Calcium To Lead Ratio: Calcium reduces lead absorption and retention within the body, calcium is considered protective of excess lead retention. The ratio of calcium to lead (Ca/Pb) has an acceptable level of 84:1. The tissue level of calcium should be at least 84 times higher than lead to prevent the adverse affect of lead within the body.

Sulfur, Iron or Selenium To Mercury Ratio: If there is a nutritional deficiency of sulfur, iron or selenium, mercury will attach to the proteins involved in enzyme activation and disrupt their function. The ratios of mercury to these minerals are critical to protecting yourself from the harmful affects of toxic mercury exposure.

Cadmium To Zinc Ratio: Cadmium has a very similar structure as zinc. Cadmium also has a higher atomic weight. When cadmium enters the body and is not excreted, it will be stored in the tissues. If there is not enough zinc present in the cell to be protective, then cadmium can displace zinc.

Mineral Antagonists Wheel Diagram

Magnesium Antagonists: Calcium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, manganese, cadmium and lead are all antagonistic to magnesium.  Vitamin D can cause a deficiency of magnesium. So for example, if a client is deficient in magnesium they would typically do best to supplement magnesium and reduce intake of things such as calcium and Vitamin D.

Mineral and Vitamin Relationships Chart

When nutrients are balanced, the right amounts of each are taken. If they are too low or too high their relationship changes. For example, calcium and magnesium are in a ratio of about 2:1 (calcium to magnesium). When the ratio is 8:1 then the calcium inhibits the absorption of the magnesium and you may can deficient.

Metal Abbreviations on the chart below:
Al is aluminum; Cd is cadmium; Hg is mercury, Ni is Nickel; Pb is lead.

Mineral Relationships

Vitamins and Minerals Relationships