hair meneral analysis

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Hair Mineral AnalysisUnlocks the secrets of health hidden in your hair

By Joy Healey BA Dip.ION, MCThA

Nutritional Therapist, Registered and Licensed

You are welcome to distribute this book freely to family or

friends you think may be interested, but notto charge for it.

Please see the section on How to Pay on page 21 if you decide

to order a test.

Dislaimer:Nothing in this book is diagnostic and Hair Mineral Analysis is nosubstitute for diagnosis by a medical practitioner, but if conventional

investigations have failed to find a reason, or suggest a treatment for your

problem, HMA is an invaluable and cost effective next step.

Nutrition 4 All

34 Kynaston Wood, Harrow, HA3 6UA, UK

For free newsletter on other health topics, subscribe at:http://www.healthyeatingforhealthylivingtips.com

Joy Healey 2003-2012

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Unlock the Secrets of Health Hidden in your Hair

Thank you for your interest in this booklet. I hope you will find it interesting and give you

inspiration to use a Hair Mineral Analysis test to improve your own health. It's not full of

waffle, but packed with information on how a hair mineral analysis (HMA) can help you orsomeone you know.

You are welcome to distribute the booklet freely to anyone you think might be interested in itscontents. You can also print out the questionnaire to give to friends and family so that they

can check their vulnerability.

In case you have received the e-book without reading http://www-4-hair-mineral-analysis.com

I'll repeat the background information you've missed.

Don't worry - there's plenty of extra information to follow!

In my work as a nutritional therapist, one of the most useful diagnostic tools at my disposal -

and something anyone can benefit from - is a Hair Mineral Analysis, or HMA.

Hair contains all the minerals present in the body and, in most cases, reflects the quantity of

these elements in your tissues. Analysis provides a wealth of information on how efficiently

your body is working and its nutritional status over a period of time.

How does the test work?

Taking a hair sample is simple, non-invasive and pain free. It is dispatched to a lab in the USA

that specializes only in hair analysis. On arrival the hair is prepared for testing and acids areadded to break it down, separating out the elements contained in the hair protein. After

digestion the remaining mineral salts are put into solution and analyzed by sensitive and

specialized instruments.

The results are then presented in a personalised report containing: levels of 38 minerals,

interactions between them, explanations of how these affect health, metabolic type, details of

foods to increase or decrease, and a tailored supplement programme designed to improve

mineral balance.

The test and report costs just 55 and gives pages and pages of information that you can use

for the rest of your life.

Often it reveals answers clients have sought for years.

There are cheaper services, I evaluated several; on the worst (costing more than half the price)I waited eight weeks for its return then received just one sheet of paper giving levels of 19

minerals. No explanations, no interactions, no graphs, no analysis. You get what you pay for.

In the past twenty years there have been over 1000 references in peer-reviewed journals,

supporting the reliability of the HMA, but perhaps of more interest are the following case

histories.

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Case history 1: J.C. presented with symptoms of fatigue, lethargy, joint aches and excessive

hair loss (at age 25). His hair mercury was markedly high. Following treatment his hair levels

of mercury decreased to a much more acceptable level and his symptoms improved

significantly. The toxicity source was never identified.

Case history 2: C.T. became mentally ill and was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. He

was also alcoholic and consuming large quantities of drugs.

An HMA revealed four times the acceptable levels of lead in his hair and also elevated levels

of cadmium, mercury and copper. Following therapy and supplementation his condition

improved dramatically, he lost his cravings for alcohol and his symptoms of mental illnessreverted to normal, with no further need for psychoactive drugs.

Case history 3: L.S., a housewife in her early 40s, had been feeling tired for months. Her

doctor had run all the standard tests and could find no problems. Finally she had an HMA

which showed she had high levels of lead that were causing her tiredness.

Relief came easily, she was feeling better in two weeks and the tired feeling vanished within a

month. L.S. had been breathing excess lead from a car exhaust. How much lead are you

breathing in from car exhausts jogging or queuing in heavy traffic? How much cadmium

have you accumulated from passive (or active!) smoking at the office and the pub? Is the

mercury in your fillings stable, or is the vapour slowly poisoning you?

Could you benefit from an HMA?

If you have a disease or illness that has not responded to conventional treatment, you may

wish to explore other possibilities and an HMA is an excellent place to start. If you are

suffering from unexplained problems such as headaches, backaches, weakness or tremors, an

HMA may help you to get to the bottom of it.

If you can answer yes to five or more of these questions an HMA may provide information

which, if acted upon, could benefit your health.

Do you live in a city, or exercise/walk by a busy road? Do you spend more than two hours a week in traffic? Do you smoke more than five cigarettes a day? Do you live or work in a smoky atmosphere? Do you buy foods exposed to exhaust fumes (i.e. on display at a road-side stall)?

Do you generally eat non-organic produce?

Do you drink more than 1 unit of alcohol per day? Do you spend a lot of time in front of a TV or VDU? Are you exposed to pollutants in your job (e.g. printing) or hobby (gardening)?

Do you have two or more amalgam dental fillings?

Do you usually drink unfiltered tap water? Are you just feeling under par without knowing why?


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Later we'll examine the consequences and possible sources of some of the toxic minerals thatcan so insidiously damage your health.

Are just toxic minerals examined?

No the HMA will examine the status of the essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium,zinc, chromium and a whole host of others.

Modern food processing methods strip nutrients from food. Did you know that a massive 98%

of chromium is stripped from flour in the refining process. Not heard of chromium? It is an

essential part of the Glucose Tolerance Factor which controls blood sugar, stimulates

burning of food for energy, controls blood cholesterol levels, reduces blood fat levels and

suppresses hunger symptoms. You can read more about chromium later in this booklet.

Modern farming methods have also depleted the mineral content of soil, and addition of some

fertilisers can make minerals unavailable to plants.

Some people imagine that food contains all the nutrients needed for good health and that those

who follow such a diet have no need of supplements. Although you can never aspire to peak

performance on a bad diet, the assumption that food is of good nutritional value simply isnt

true any longer.

Advice compiled by the United States senate as far back as 1936, tells us that: "Food (fruits,

vegetables and grains) is now being raised on land that no longer contains enough of certain

minerals. These foods are starving us - no matter how much of them we eat. No man today

can eat enough fruit and vegetables to supply his system with the minerals he requires for

perfect health, because his stomach isn't big enough to hold them."

In 1992 the Earth Summit reported that minerals in European soil had decreased by 72% over

the last 100 years. In addition to this, food processing removes large percentages of nutrients -

up to 98%.

Your food lacks nutrition due to:

Over-processing and refining of foods: For example, refining wheat flour removes folic acid

- important both pre-conceptually and for many vital bodily functions.

Modern day farming: Traditional methods of farming left land to rest periodically, allowing

the soil to build up nutrients naturally. Unfortunately commercial pressures on many farmers

mean they cannot afford to wait for nature; instead they use chemical fertilisers to feed the

crops, consequently affecting the nutritional quality and possibly leaving harmful toxic

residues.

Pesticides: The average lettuce purchased in the UK has been sprayed with pesticides eleven

times. Do you wash your food thoroughly enough to remove all this? Do your children wash

all the fruit they eat?

Cold storage: Most supermarket fruit and vegetables have been stored for six to nine months,during which time nutrient content can fall dramatically. Tests show that the nutritional value

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of food varies dramatically. One randomly picked orange contained 70mg of vitamin C,another just a trace. How can you be sure youre eating the required amount? Even if we

knew what is right for YOU!

So why is food processed?

Food processing began around the time of the industrial revolution. Before that, people

worked on farms and ate what they grew. However when people began to work in factories

producing textiles etc it was necessary to provide food for them. Flour was refined so that it

could be stored - it has the nourishment taken out so that it won't even support a weevil.

Sugar was added to give workers extra energy. Fat was added to make it filling, more cheaply.

Food is also processed for convenience, to help us live a faster pace of life. But most of all,

manufacturers process foods to increase their profits. They encourage higher consumption

by adding sugar (addictive!), they add preservatives or salt to increase shelf life, and use of

colorings and waxes makes food more attractive.

Substances sometimes added in processing are:

Phosphorus to make fizzy drinks, this upsets bodily calcium/phosphorus balance

Nitrites (possibly carcinogenic) to preserve food

Colorings - linked to hyper-activity and migraine

Pesticides - did you realize that the average person consumes 4.5litres of pesticide per

year?

Growth hormones are added to animal feed so that cattle mature earlier to be ready for

slaughter soonerAntibiotics to keep them disease free, leading to increasing resistance of bacteria to

antibiotics so many are no longer effective in humans, as even people who have not taken

antibiotics themselves, may have had a regular dose from eating non-organic meat.

Minerals such as zinc, chromium, magnesium and manganese are just some of the substances

removed in processing - as much as 97% in some cases. Yes - you could wait until you're so

deficient in these vital nutrients that you develop an illness. But why not let a hair mineral

analysis check up on your status in advance?

Its not just shortages that can cause problems. If sodium (in table salt), calcium (in dairy

products) and phosphorous (in fizzy drinks) are present in excess in your diet, these can upsetthe natural mineral ratios. Is fluoride in your water supply depressing your calcium absorption?

The graphs in an HMA will reveal all.

Even looking at shortages and excesses of individual minerals doesn't tell the whole story. You

need to know the levels of significant ratios. Mineral balance is as important as the individuallevels. Seven significant ratios are examined and contrasted with 'ideal' values. These ratios

reflect the critical balance that must be maintained for a healthy body.

For example - many people think they can't have too much calcium in their system. WRONG!

Calcium must be in the correct balance with potassium, phosphorous and magnesium. If these,and other, ratios are out of kilter you are storing up problems for the future.

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As well as eating the right foods, our modern life-style means you need to protect yourself

from exposure to a vast array of chemicals. An excess of anti-nutrients - substances that stop

nutrients being used or promote their excretion - causes many health problems. When the

bodys ability to detoxify itself is exceeded, toxins accumulate in fatty tissues and may cause

chronic health problems. If your job or lifestyle has exposed you to such toxins you arerecommended to have a hair mineral analysis test to check your levels. If found to be in

excess, there are many ways in which a nutritional approach can help. But it makes sense to do

as much as you can to protect yourself from exposure in the first place - and to be aware of

danger zones for you, or damage that's already happening.

Balance is the key

Did you know that taking too much iron can contribute to certain types of cancers, but too

little iron can also have the same effect? Likewise, iron deficiency can cause anemia, but too

much iron can cause another type of anemia, and contribute to migraine and arthritis. It's wellknown that calcium can help prevent osteoporosis, less well known that - in some people -calcium supplements can contribute to brittle bones. Which type of person are you? Is the

supplement programme you are taking helping you or harming you?

To bring about biochemical balance in the body a supplement programme should not only takeinto consideration what a person does need, but what they do not need.

You see it's not just the levels of minerals that matters but the ratios of certain key ones andthe key to understanding the effects of nutrients is to understand their relationships.

There are two basic relationships. In some instances pairs of nutrients work in co-operation(or synergistically) - at other times they can work against each other, antagonistically. For

more detailed treatment of this subject read the excellent book by Dr David Watts, "Trace

Elements and Other Essential Nutrients" ISBN 188567624. Much of the information

presented in this booklet is based on Dr Watts' work. He has written over 50 scientific

publications and serves as Director of Research for the lab I have chosen to use for HMA tests

in my practice.

The report you receive with an HMA will provide key information on the ratios of minerals in

your body. There are two main sets of ratios.

The significant nutrient ratios indicate whether important essential minerals are in balance or

not. The 'toxic ratios' portion of the analysis displays the relationship between important

nutritional elements and specific toxic metals. Ratios falling into the 'danger' zone may indicate

the interference of a toxic metal upon another nutritional mineral. Individuals with high toxic

metal levels may not yet show associated symptoms.

Without access to the sophisticated testing equipment and computerized analysis available to

you via the USA lab, you'd be unlikely to be able to evaluate all these ratios yourself, nor

would your health practitioner, however painstakingly they prepared your programme.

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You can find out

Hair Mineral Analysis should not be used as a substitute for diagnosis by a medical

practitioner, but if conventional investigations have failed to find a reason, or suggest a

treatment for your problem, HMA represents an invaluable and cost effective next step.

Further down you'll find a very special offer for purchasers of this booklet.

Remember this isn't a mass market 'prescription' - for the price of a decent night out for the

family, your own biochemical balance has been examined to come up with your completelyindividualized recommendations.

Your report will not only present the information and the ratios - it will also advise you onfoods to eat and foods you can avoid to help improve your health. For example, if toxic

minerals are found to be in excess, there are many ways in which a nutritional approach can aid

detoxification.

It makes sense to do as much as you can to protect yourself from exposure to toxic metals in

the first place. So that you can assess the importance of the information on offer, let me tell

you about some of the toxic metals for which an HMA will screen.

ALUMINUM / ALUMINIUM (depending on where you live!)

As well as eating the right foods, our modern life-style means you need to protect yourself

from exposure to a vast array of chemicals. Many health problems are caused by an excess of

anti-nutrients - substances which stop nutrients being used, or promote their excretion. When

the bodys ability to detoxify itself is exceeded, toxins accumulate in fatty tissues and may

cause chronic health problems. If your job or lifestyle has exposed you to such toxins you arerecommended to have a hair mineral analysis test to check your levels. If they are found to be

in excess, there are many ways in which a nutritional approach can help.

More commonly found than you might think is aluminum, which has been linked with

Parkinsons disease by some researchers. Aluminum has also been found in tangled fibres inthe brains of Alzheimers sufferers. Aluminum may be responsible for symptoms such as poor

memory and concentration, skin irritation, hair loss and slow metabolic rate.

You may imagine that you're unlikely to have picked up aluminum contamination in yourlifetime. But it's easier than you think - you may be surprised at some of the sources.

Sources of aluminum in our daily lives

Aspirin, some deodorants, antacids and toothpaste tubes.

Consumables such as processed cheese, table salt (for smoother pouring), baking powder,

instant coffee, tea bags, powdered milk. Aluminum is added to some foods (E173) as an

emulsifying, bleaching or anti-caking agent and to flour to bleach it. Many food additives

are harmful, but are still added to enhance appearance and shelf-life hence profitability.

Check the labels and avoid additives where possible. Buy fresh, organic food and consume

it before it deteriorates.

Many water authorities add aluminum to the water supply to clean it, so drink filtered or

bottled water ideally from glass, not plastic bottles

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Aluminum is often present in packaging such as aluminum foil and cans. Many cooking

utensils are made from aluminum and it is particularly harmful to cook fruit and vegetables

in aluminum pans as the cooking water will become acidic and take up more aluminum.

The vitamins and minerals in wholesome food can help protect you from toxins and aid

detoxification if necessary for instance, vitamin C (found in fruit and vegetables or easy totake as an inexpensive supplement) fights against heavy metals.

Iron deficiency enhances the uptake of aluminum from the diet. Aluminum is soluble in waterand more readily absorbed by man in acidic conditions. If iron is deficient there will be less

hemoglobin made and the blood will be more acidic so more ready to take up aluminum.

People who are anemic often have raised levels of aluminum. Its far better to get iron from

your diet than from a supplement, as iron supplements may make you constipated. Iron can be

found in parsley, dates, almonds, prunes, cashew nuts, raisins, brazil nuts, walnuts, pork,

cooked dried beans, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, pecan nuts.

Can you reduce the uptake of aluminum from the diet?

Calcium and zinc reduce the uptake of aluminum from the diet so eat plenty of leafy green

vegetables, nuts, seeds, Brewers Yeast and sea foods.

Avoid as many as possible of the sources above.

Make sure you eat organically grown foods to minimize the risk of ingesting other toxins

from pesticides.

Can you remove aluminum from your body?

Fibre and pectin (a soluble form of fibre found in carrots, apples, the pith of citrus fruits and

bananas) help remove toxic metals from the body, as do foods which include sulphurcontaining amino acids (the building blocks for protein). These include onions, garlic and eggs.

Finally, be sure to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables containing vitamin C.

So there you have the basics about aluminum - how you could have been exposed to it and

what to do if your report reveals imblances.

What else?

ANTIMONY

An unusual one - antimony is a constituent of fire retardants that are used in clothing, beddingand other materials. Older plastic mattresses and pillow covers could give off antimony

compounds, contributing to an artificial level of hair antimony. Depending on the level found,

this may not be considered clinically significant.

COPPER

Friend or foe? You may not know until you take the test! Although copper is essential for

health, too high or too low levels can cause problems. It is important for many vital bodily

functions, including: formation of white and red blood cells, healthy growth, brain and muscle

function, immunity, connective tissue, skin and hair pigments, iron absorption, cholesterol and

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glucose regulation, enzyme production, energy usage and in the correct functioning of thenervous system.

What problems might arise?

Continually high levels of copper may be associated with depression, irritability, nervousness,anxiety, phobias, irritability and joint or muscle pains. Copper levels will rise naturally during

pregnancy, with use of certain IUDs or when taking the Pill. Levels may also be too high as a

result of a vitamin C or B3 deficiency.

Copper deficiency symptoms include: anaemia, blood vessel haemorrhage, heart muscle

weakness, hypothermia, low white blood cell count, depigmentation of the skin, loweredimmunity, loss of taste and skin elasticity, infertility and osteoporosis. Some people with high

levels of histamine may have low copper levels and experience phobias and compulsions.

Copper inactivates histamine, so other people may have high levels of copper but low levels of

histamine, experiencing paranoia and hallucinations. If the copper/histamine balance is causinga problem, see the section on balancing levels of copper.

Now let's see how those calculated ratios become important. Copper, although essential,

"fights" against zinc and inhibits the absorption of iron, both of which you'll recognize as

important minerals particularly so during pregnancy. Your HMA will evaluate the ratios of

zinc to copper and iron to copper to check that you don't have too much of a good thing.

Is your copper level too high? Ceruloplasmin, the copper-containing protein, is produced

faster in the presence of oestrogen and any biological state which increases copper levels is

likely to increase the need for vitamin C as high levels of copper have been found to destroy

vitamin C.

What are the sources of copper?

Dietary sources of copper include avocado pears, liver, molasses, kidney, olives, apricots,

chocolate and coffee. Other sources include water pipes (watch for blue stains in the sink),

copper pans, processed food and pesticide or fungicide residues on non-organically grown

produce. Copper bracelets, often used to help rheumatism, are thought to result in copperbeing absorbed through the skin. This may be helpful or not, depending on your hair mineral

analysis result.

Can you correct the level of copper in your body?

Calcium and zinc reduce levels of copper which is good if you have an excess, but not if you

have a deficiency. In either case, check whether your multi-mineral includes or excludes

copper. If it excludes it and you have a deficiency, the calcium and zinc in your supplement

may be worsening the deficiency so you should switch to one that includes copper. Other ways

to increase your copper levels are eating plenty of the foods listed above and wearing a copper

bracelet.

Incidentally, one of the most over-diagnosed problems is Candidiasis. Often people have been

condemned to an anti-candida diet unnecessarily. While the diet can work wonders with

genuine Candida over-growth, many people will not benefit - because Candida is not theirmain problem. The copper / zinc ratio can give an indication as to whether Candida is a likely

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problem or not as excessive concentrations of copper apparently produce an environment thatencourages yeast and fungal proliferation. Individuals with chronic Candidiasis typically have

high tissue copper levels.

The first priority, if you have a problem with excess copper, is to avoid as many as possible of

the sources above. To reduce copper levels, eat plenty of the foods which contain calcium andzinc: leafy green vegetables, lamb, peas, almonds, parsley, Brewers Yeast and root

vegetables. Make sure you eat organically grown foods to minimize the risk of ingesting toxins

from pesticides. Fibre and pectin (a soluble form of fibre found in carrots, apples, the pith of

citrus fruits and bananas) help remove toxic metals from the body, as do foods which include

sulphur containing amino acids (the building blocks for protein). These include onions, garlic

and eggs. Finally be sure to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables containing vitamin C.

LEAD

Adults with high levels of lead may experience lack of physical and mental energy togetherwith memory loss, depression and headaches. Children are at most risk from exposure.

Aggression, learning difficulties, and hyperactivity are some of the most common effects

there may even be irreversible brain damage in the worst cases. Other symptoms associated

with excess lead in children are: headaches, poor appetite, indigestion, constipation, fatigue,aching muscles, behavioural disorders, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pains. This is

obviously a toxin to be avoided in pregnancy.

How to lower intake or absorption of lead into the body

The most important point is not to take in lead in the first place. One way in which a large

proportion of lead is ingested is on the surface of produce grown or displayed by roads thatsuffer from heavy traffic. Before use, wash all fruit and vegetables in warm water with a little

vinegar added this will reduce surface deposits by about 90%. Likewise, discard the outer

leaves where possible to reduce the amount taken in. To minimize exposure, use organically

grown produce. Another danger is from animal protein if the animals have grazed in fields near

roads with heavy traffic. Other sources are lead pipes, paint or batteries.

Ensure your diet contains adequate calcium (which prevents lead being stored in bones),

copper, zinc (prevents absorption in the gut), iron, chromium. These hinder absorption, so

reduce accumulation in the body. Vitamins C and a B-complex may need supplementing. A

high fibre diet will prevent lead being absorbed but this will also reduce uptake of zinc, so

zinc supplementation may be necessary.

Minimise use of cans as some contain lead solder. Also beware of glazes on crockery. Check if

there is lead in your water pipes and if so, ideally have them replaced. If this is impossible, run

off water in the morning before using any for drinking or preparing food. Better still, use

bottled water (filtering is unlikely to remove lead). Alcohol increases lead absorption, so cut

drinking down (or, if trying for a baby, dont drink at all!) and dont store alcohol in lead

crystal decanters.

If you recognise any of those sources as possible ways you could have been exposed to lead

pollution, an HMA will check lead levels - and the ratios of lead to the lead-antagonistic

minerals calcium, iron and sulphur.

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How to remove lead from the body

Inorganic lead (found in lead pipes, paint and batteries) can be eliminated by consuming a diet

rich in calcium, vitamins C and D, zinc and iron. Increased intake of pectin fibre and algin will

decrease absorption. Algin is derived from alginic acid, which is extracted from brown

seaweed or kelp. It is used as a stabilizer and emulsifier, especially in ice cream or jellies.Penicillamine and EDTA chelation drugs may be used medically but have limited effect as they

cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. However vitamin C can cross it and has been shown to

have better results in reducing concentrations of lead in the brain. Vitamin C sacrifices itself to

take out heavy metals so extra supplements will be required to counteract a heavy toxic load.

So far there is no known way to treat toxicity from organic lead (as found in petrol) because

once it has been absorbed by the body, there is currently no way to eliminate it.

Lead and pregnancy

Lead is fetotoxic and easily crosses the placenta. It increases the risk of foetal maldevelopment

by interfering with nerve transmissions and control of the availability of oxygen to the nervoussystem. Most brain cells have already developed before a babys birth. Then vast numbers of

inter-connections must be made. If nerve cells have been damaged this can lead to

hyperactivity or retardation as they grow. A direct relationship has been found between lead

levels in the placenta and babies birthweights. The correlation even holds true at what would

be considered a normal lead level, so there appears to be no real safe level. Lead is also

known to damage sperm and ova. Scientific studie studies have found that stillbirths have

elevated levels of lead and cadmium but reduced zinc. Lead is strongly antagonistic to the

absorption and utilisation of the essential minerals zinc, iron and calcium, deficiencies of which

can cause severe problems for the baby. Likewise, it has been found that deficiencies of

calcium and zinc may increase the toxic effects and tissue accumulation of lead.

Then we come to mercury - another hidden nasty!

MERCURY

One of the most toxic substances known to man is mercury. It inactivates many of the bodys

reactions and may cause symptoms such as memory loss, headaches, depression, poor co-

ordination, insomnia, nervousness, dizziness, fatigue and in the worst cases, insanity. It

accumulates as we age and this is exacerbated by the fact that we then may have less of thenutrients that protect against it.

Some cases of allergies may occur because the immune system is so stressed by the levels ofmercury in the body that it cannot cope with normal functions.

Common sources of mercury in our lives

The most common source of mercury for many of us is in amalgam dental fillings and dentists

are at particular risk of mercury toxicity.

In severe cases you may wish to consider having these extracted. Many sufferers from

autoimmune diseases such as MS have improved after having amalgam fillings correctly

removed. However, one school of thought considers this unwise because you expose yourself

to higher levels during the process.

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If you do decide to pursue this route, be sure to use a specially trained dentist who will take allthe necessary precautions. At the time of writing a list of mercury free dentists can be found at:http://mercuryfreedentists.com/

or for the UK: http://www.naturopathy-uk.com/resources/resources-dentists/

Another source of mercury is contaminated fish. Fish can concentrate mercury discharged inindustrial waste. It may pass from plankton, to fish and thence to man. Tuna have often been

cited as an example of fish that accumulate mercury by eating smaller fish. Luckily tuna are

high in selenium which protects against mercury, but nevertheless it makes sense to keep tuna

consumption within reasonable limits.

Broken thermometers, fungicides and industrial processes are other possible sources.

How can you reduce the uptake of mercury from the diet?

Calcium and zinc reduce the uptake of mercury from the diet so eat plenty of leafy green

vegetables, nuts, seeds, Brewers Yeast and sea-foods. Avoid as many as possible of the

sources above. Make sure you eat organically grown foods to minimize the risk of ingesting

toxins from pesticides.

The vitamins and minerals in wholesome food can help protect you from toxins and aid

detoxification if necessary for instance, vitamin C (found in fruit and vegetables and easy to

take as an inexpensive supplement) fights against heavy metals. Selenium, particularly,

protects against mercury and can be found in seeds (particularly sesame), sea-foods andseaweed.

How can you remove mercury from your body?

Fibre and pectin (a soluble form of fibre found in carrots, apples, the pith of citrus fruits andbananas) help remove toxic metals from the body, as do foods which include sulphur

containing amino acids (the building blocks for protein). These include onions, garlic and eggs.Finally, be sure to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables containing vitamin C.

TOXIC METALS SUMMARIZED

High levels of any of lead, cadmium, mercury and aluminum have been linked to all manner of

health problems.

They are particularly dangerous in children and those planning for pregnancy, when they canlead to infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, premature birth, skeletal deformity, learning

difficulties and behavioural problems through to frank mental retardation. There is a theory

(no more!) that if a mans sperm are not in good condition, the womans body may make

efforts to destroy them, so an HMA is a wise preparation for both partners when planning a

pregnancy.

To cleanse toxic metals:

Fibre and pectin (a soluble form of fibre found in carrots, apples, the pith of citrus fruits and

bananas) help remove toxic metals from the body, as do foods which include sulphur

containing amino acids (the building blocks for protein) such as onions, garlic and eggs.Vitamins B1 (in brown rice, nuts, poultry, whole-grains, soya) and B12 (in meat, fish, dairy

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products and spirulina) should also be helpful. Finally, be sure to eat plenty of fruit andvegetables containing vitamin C.

Calcium and zinc reduce the uptake of aluminum from the diet so eat plenty of leafy green

vegetables, nuts, seeds, Brewers Yeast and sea-foods. Make sure you eat organically

grown foods to minimize the risk of ingesting toxins from pesticides.

NUTRIENT MINERALS IN HMA

We've looked at the harmful substances a hair mineral analysis may reveal. But, as mentioned,the HMA is also invaluable for revealing levels of nutrient minerals. Here are the most

important of the nutrient minerals examined.

CALCIUM

Calcium is an important structural mineral. 99% is found in bones and teeth. The other 1% iscrucial for blood clotting, muscle contraction, nerve conduction, immunity and energy

production. It can be found in milk and dairy products, eggs, green leafy vegetables especially

broccoli, tinned salmon (including the bones), nuts, seeds, pulses and bread made from

fortified flour. However, only 30-40% of dietary calcium is absorbed. Deficiencies show as:

hypertension, muscle cramps, palpitations, rickets, poor tooth/bone development.

Interestingly enough, milk and dairy products are not the excellent source of calcium that the

dairy industry would have us believe. The reason is that they do not contain the correct ratio

of calcium to magnesium. Remember we touched on the important fact that minerals should be

in the correct balance with each other? Calcium and magnesium are another case in point.

Often an HMA result returns showing a 'sky-high' level of calcium and a relative magnesiumdeficiency exists, because magnesium is important for the normal metabolism of calcium.

A deficiency of magnesium relative to calcium may cause calcium to precipitate out of solution

and deposit itself in the urinary tract, gall bladder or arteries - this can lead to cardiac

irregularities, especially if potassium metabolism is also disturbed.

High calcium with respect to magnesium has also been associated with a colitis-like conditionbecause the two nutrients must be in the correct balance for normal muscular function. And an

elevation of calcium with respect to potassium is associated with a tendency towards

hypothyroidism, which often shows itself first as fatigue.

More to this than meets the eye? Beginning to see the advantages of a computerized analysis

tailored to YOUR biochemistry, rather than someones guesswork to choose your supplements?

COBALT

Deficiency may be found in vegetarians and could indicate a B12 deficiency, as it is a major part

of this vitamin, which is needed for all cellular functions, particularly red blood cell formation

and the synthesis of RNA and DNA. Increased bacterial colonization is known to inhibit cobaltabsorption and parasites selectively inhibit cobalt absorption. This shows another way in which

an HMA can point to further areas for investigation.

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Symptoms of cobalt deficiency other than anemia include sore tongue, numbness of heels orfingertips radiating to legs or arms, mood swings. Excess cobalt has been associated with

anemia due to cobalt/iron antagonism and symptoms of excess cobalt include: gastro-

intestinal disturbances, abdominal pain, vomiting, flushing, chest pains, dermatitis, nausea,kidney problems, thyroid disturbance, deafness, hyperglycaemia or hypothyroidism,

CHROMIUM

As part of the Glucose Tolerance Factor (GTF), chromium - together with vitamin B3 and

amino acids glycine, glutamic acid and cystine - is essential for blood sugar control. GTF

promotes insulin activity and promotes blood sugar uptake by muscles and organs, stimulates

burning of glucose for energy, controls blood cholesterol and fat levels, stimulates production

of essential nerve components and suppresses feelings of hunger.

There are even scientific studies showing that chromium (in the picolinate form) increases age

span in rats and that heart disease is less likely when blood levels of chromium are optimum.

As we might expect from the main function of chromium, signs of deficiency are also signs of

low blood sugar - such as irritability, confusion, cold sweats, sleepiness, cravings for sweet

foods, weakness, depression, nervousness, learning disabilities and alcohol intolerance. Other

symptoms are similar to those noticed in the early stages of diabetes: hunger, thirst, weight

loss, itching, frequent urination and high blood lipids. Chromium deficiency has also been

linked to low sperm count.

Several scientific studies have found that chromium picolinate reduces the damage caused by

diabetes and decreases fasting blood sugar levels in NIDDM sufferers. In one study patients

experienced an average reduction of 32.6% in fasting blood sugar. A word of warning -chromium picolinate supplementation can be so effective that diabetics who use it should

monitor their blood sugar level very carefully and liaise closely with a health professional.

Dr Richard Passwater estimates that 90% of people do not get the minimum amount of

chromium they need. Deficiency may be due to high intake of refined/processed foods;

prolonged slimming regimes: malnutrition, pregnancy or alcoholism.

Chromium is poorly absorbed, and body stores reduce with age, so anyone with absorption

problems needs to take particular care to get an adequate supply. Furthermore, sugar, alcohol,

tea, coffee and the presence of heavy metals hinder absorption and utilization.

The best source of chromium is Brewer's yeast, which can be added to casseroles and soups.

Other sources are: whole-meal or rye bread, oysters, potatoes, green peppers, eggs, chicken,

apples, butter, parsnips, mushrooms and molasses.

IODINE

Iodine is vital for the production of the two thyroid hormones thyroxin (T4) and tri-

iodothyronine (T3).

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Deficiency, which is common in many parts of the world, is associated with goitre and poorthyroid function leading to lethargy, tiredness, susceptibility to cold, weight gain, coarse skin,

brittle hair and nails, breast tenderness and increased mucous production.

Iodine can be found in sea fish, kelp, iodized salt and crops or cattle reared on soils exposed to

sea spray.

The effects of iodine deficiency are worsened by low selenium so the two should be

considered together.

IRON

Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin and muscle myoglobin. It is necessary for

energy production and the formation of chemicals used by white blood cells to fight infection.

Deficiency can be a cause of one type of anemia, poor immunity, generalized skin-itching,concave brittle nails, loss of hair, sore tongue, cracking at the corners of the mouth, reduced

appetite and difficulty swallowing. Up to 20% of the menstruating women in the developed

world are iron deficient. Deficiency in pregnancy can cause foetal eye defects, bone defects,

brain defects, learning difficulties.

Good food sources include shellfish, red meat, sardines, wheat-germ, whole-meal bread,

egg yolk, green vegetables, dried fruit. Vitamin C aids absorption of iron.

Because iron is protective against lead and mercury and excess copper, these ratios will be

disclosed by your HMA. Excess iron has an oxidant effect and is considered toxic.

MAGNESIUM

Magnesium is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body, accounting for approximately

0.05% of your total weight. About 54% is contained in teeth and bones, the remaining 46% in

bodily fluids such as blood and saliva. It is essential for many bodily processes including

energy production, tissue repair and maintenance, muscle function (including the heart), nerveimpulse transmission. A co-factor for over 300 enzymes, it is necessary to ensure correct

functioning of many enzymes and vitamins and most metabolic reactions, including energy

production, healthy bones, nerve and muscle function. Magnesium is also involved in

production of dopamine to maintain normal moods.

Signs of magnesium deficiency include: insomnia, calcium deposits, death, nervousness, high

blood pressure, muscle tremors/spasms/weakness, irregular heart beat, constipation, fits or

convulsions, lack of appetite, hyperactivity, depression, PMT, involuntary eye movements,

confusion, nausea, poor co-ordination, palpitations, bowel irregularity, painful swallowing,

tooth decay, vertigo, anorexia, low blood sugar or tiredness. There is also much research

linking magnesium deficiency with migraine.

With modern life-styles, there are many possible reasons for low levels of magnesium: food

processing and refining, food grown in poor quality soil, poor diet, decreased absorption fromdietary sources, drug interactions or disturbed membrane transport. Females absorb less

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magnesium than men so are more susceptible to deficiency. The need for magnesium increaseswhen blood cholesterol levels are high and when consumption of protein is high.

Magnesium depletion

Common causes of magnesium depletion are: high intake of: dairy/calcium, phosphorous,excess intake of calcium, vitamin D and saturated fats, sugar or caffeine. Studies have shown

that plasma magnesium levels are significantly reduced in heavy smokers and drinkers, stress,

infections, allergies, kidney disease, diabetes, cancer, Addisons disease, burns, surgery,

cirrhosis, hepatitis, hyper-aldosteronism, epilepsy, eclampsia use of modern fertilisers eat

organic foods where possible to minimize exposure. Diuretics, antibiotics, heart drugs, the Pill,corticosteroid drugs, malabsorption due to laxative abuse, aluminum competing with

magnesium avoid using aluminum foil and utensils deficiency of zinc, B6, vitamin E, thiamine,

EFAs excess zinc, copper (rarely), cobalt or iron increases magnesium requirements.

Absorption is hindered by oxalates (spinach & rhubarb) and phytates (wheat bran and bread)

We have already examined the relationship between calcium and magnesium. If calcium

consumption is high, magnesium intake also needs to be high to prevent an imbalance

occurring. High dairy (vitamin D and calcium) intake can upset the Ca/Mg balance.

Magnesium is not a difficult mineral to obtain in adequate quantities in a healthy, whole-food

diet containing plenty of nuts, seeds and dark green leafy vegetables (where it is an essential

element of chlorophyll). Other good sources are: wheat-germ, almonds, cashews, soybeans,

whole grains, sea-foods, figs, Brewers yeast, buckwheat, Brazil nuts, meat, eggs, bananas,peanuts, pecan nuts, cooked beans, garlic, raisins, peas, potato skin, corn, peaches, apricots.

Processing of whole-grains removes magnesium.

Excess magnesium

While magnesium deficiency is not good, neither is excess. Large doses of magnesium can

cause diarrhoea, nausea and headaches. Toxicity is rare because your body will normally

excrete any excess. However magnesium is often used in antacids and laxatives and over-use

of either preparation may cause an excess, particularly in the elderly. Certain bone tumours

and cancers can raise magnesium levels. Magnesium supplements should not be taken without

medical approval if any of these apply or if you have, or suspect, kidney problems.

MANGANESE

Manganese is involved in the production of amino acids, carbohydrates, cholesterol, cartilage,

collagen, sex hormones, blood clotting factors and some neuro-transmitters. It is essential for

normal growth and development. Food sources are: tea-leaves, whole-grains, nuts, seeds,

fruit, eggs, leafy green vegetables, shellfish and milk. Processing of whole-grains removes

manganese. Deficiency may cause reddening of body hair, scaly skin, poor growth of hair and

nails, disc and cartilage problems, poor blood clotting, glucose intolerance, poor memory and

low fertility. Deficiency in pregnancy may lead to foetal malformation of inner ear, bone

malformations, ataxia (loss of control of movements), hyper-irritability, head retraction, poor

co-ordination, tremors, cartilage and heart problems, learning difficulties

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NICKEL

Rarely discussed in nutrition circles, nickel is found in most biological systems.

It is particularly relevant to modern society and the fast-food, high carbohydrate diet because

it can cause hypoglycaemia by prolonging the effects of insulin.

Nickel is associated with more instances of allergic dermatitis then any other metal, often

triggered by the use of cheap metal posts used when ears are first pierced.

Observations of HMA studies indicate that nickel increases the retention of sodium and can

promote water retention.

Deficiency in a parent may lead to foetal liver, kidney and heart abnormalities

SODIUM AND POTASSIUM

Sodium and potassium are frequently referred to as electrolytes as they carry a positive

electrical charge. Sodium tends to be concentrated outside cells and potassium inside. The

difference in concentration produces an electrical potential across the cell membrane, which is

important for nerve conduction, muscle contractions, fluid balance and acid-alkaline balance.

Ratios of sodium to potassium and calcium to potassium are considered significant in a hair

mineral analysis. When sodium is low, the kidneys respond by conserving it and when intake is

high, more will be excreted. The ratio of sodium to potassium is important - when sodium is

high in relation to potassium (ideal is 2.4:1) this may indicate acute stress or the beginning ofan inflammatory process. When sodium is low relative to potassium the exhaustion stage of

stress may be ensuing.

Potassium is essential for muscle contraction, heart beat, nerve conduction, maintenance ofblood sugar levels, production of nucleic acids, proteins and energy and to flush excess sodium

from the body. It can be found in seafood, fruit (particularly bananas), vegetables, whole-grains

and potassium enriched salt. Deficiency has been linked with poor appetite, fatigue, weakness,

low blood sugar, muscle cramps, irregular heart beat, constipation, irritability, pins and

needles, drowsiness, confusion and reduced sperm motility. A potassium deficiency may

contribute to increased sodium retention.

SELENIUM

This is a co-factor for antioxidant enzymes, helping to protect cells from harmful free radicals.

It is necessary for normal cell growth and immunity and to regulate production of thyroid

hormones. Selenium is involved in the conversion of the thyroid hormone T4 to the active

form T3, therefore a deficiency of selenium may contribute indirectly to a hypothyroidcondition.

Food sources are Brazil nuts, fish, poultry, meats, wholegrains, mushrooms, onions, garlic,broccoli and cabbage.

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There is potentially a wide-spread deficiency due to low soil levels. UK intakes halvedbetween 1975 and 1994. Deficiency is linked with age spots, arthritis, some cancers, poor

immunity, low fertility, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, cataracts, , chromosome

damage, pancreatitis, muscle weakness, heart failure, lung disorders. American research haslinked deficiency with Downs Syndrome.

The ratio of selenium to mercury is considered important in toxin protection.

ZINC

Zinc is a co-factor for over 200 enzymes. A joke when I was training was that if you didn't

know the answer to any question about an essential mineral, just answer zinc - you'd almost

certainly be right.

Zinc is necessary to switch on genes in response to hormone triggers, vital to growth,

digestion, sexual maturity, sperm health, wound healing and immunity. Many cases ofinfertility (male and female) can be resolved by zinc supplementation. However, excess zinc

reduces copper absorption so - as always - it's essential to get the balance right. The HMA will

keep you on target.

Food sources include red meat, seafood (especially oysters), offal, Brewer's yeast, whole-

grains, pulses, eggs and cheese. Processing of food removes zinc from whole-grains.

Low intakes are associated with poor taste sensation and appetite, low testosterone levels,prostatitis, recurrent infections, acne and reduced fertility.

Deficiency when preparing for pregnancy can lead to foetal growth retardation, anorexia, lossof hair, seborrhoea, apathy, defects in eyes, kidneys, brain and bones, heart problems and small

eyes. Males are at particular risk of deficiency as each ejaculate contains 5mg of zinc - one

third of the RDA.

MINERALS SUMMARIZED

It's confusing to remember all the food sources of the individual nutrient minerals. In general a

good mineral-rich diet can be found in: Brewers yeast, bone broth, whole-grains, nuts, seeds,

soya, fresh and dried fruit and vegetables, milk, cheese, egg, seafood, poultry, meats, offal,

molasses, black pepper, garlic, salt, corn and olive oil.

However, many people firmly believe the only way to overcome the losses caused by poor diet

and food processing is by regular supplementation.

RATIOS REVISITED

While the information on minerals is interesting, that is not the main thrust of this booklet, nor

the most valuable part of an HMA. The key point to take away is that it is not the individual

levels of minerals that are important - interesting and useful though that information may be -

but the interrelationships between pairs of minerals. And this is all but impossible to determinewithout an objective testing procedure such as an HMA.

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As you've seen - taking a mineral in a multi may be counter-productive if it leads to animbalance of the delicate ratios I've only been able to touch on briefly above. Re-read the

sections on calcium and magnesium if you have any doubts about the complexity of these

ratios.

It's worrying to think that your best intentions could be worsening the problem by tipping thescales further in the wrong direction.

However good your nutritionist, it would be a minefield to design manually a programme that

takes all these effects into consideration. But help is at hand. The hair mineral analysis includes

a personalized supplement programme based entirely on your bodily results.

Results can appear confusing at first because the recommendations may not include minerals

that appear below normal, or in turn may recommend minerals that appear above normal on the

graphs. This is not an oversight. As we have seen, specific minerals will interact with others toraise or lower tissue mineral levels. The computerized programme - the work of many years of

research - is designed to balance your mineral levels through these interactions.

Many happy clients have seen the benefits of following the HMA's programme. Let's face it,

the price of acquiring all this personalized information and knowledge is only about the cost of

a single appointment with a nutritionist - less in many cases. In any case, a professional

practitioner prefers to measure rather than guess, so is very likely to suggest you take the test

anyway. The mineral interactions are just too complicated to handle manually.

WHAT NEXT?

I hope the above has been of interest and convinced you of the importance of hair mineralanalysis. Not only if you have health problems, but as a preventative measure, to ensure the

continued health of you and your family.

Obviously an HMA is no substitute for diagnosis by a medical practitioner, but if conventional

investigations have failed to find a reason, or suggest a treatment for your problem, HMA is

an invaluable and cost effective next step. The price of an HMA is 55 as at June 2012.

HOW TO PAY.

You may offset the price paid for this booklet against the cost ofONE Hair Analysis only.For example, if you paid a 5 deposit, send just 50 together with proof of payment (such as

PayPal/Google/Clickbank) receipt) and your hair sample (see instructions below). Your

analysis will ready in just three weeks.

If you obtained the booklet free of charge anywhere, thats fine, but full payment is

required for the test. Confirm the current price on http://www.4-hair-mineral-analysis.com .

Just think - three weeks from now you could hold the key to improving your health! Don't

delay - act now, before the moment passes.

Do it yourself; do it for members of the family. No blood samples; no doctor's charges! Read

on to find out just how simple it is.

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How to take a hair sample

As we have seen, Hair Mineral Analysis is an analytical test that reveals the mineral

composition in the hair and provides indications of imbalances, deficiencies and excesses of

many essential minerals and toxic metals. However, the amount and location of where the hair

is taken from can affect the accuracy of the results.

When taking your sample, please observe the following:

1. Complete the questionnaire on the next page, for posting with the sample2. You need a clean, uncontaminated envelope to contain the hair sample and nothing else.

Please do NOT enclose the payment or questionnaire in the same envelope as the hair

3. Avoid contamination (from rust, iron or chrome plating) - use clean stainless steelscissors Take several small samples of hair from several different places in the area

specified in the diagram (back/nape)

4. Use the first 2 - 3 centimetres of hair closest to your head. This will be your mostrecent growth so will most accurately reflect your current mineral status and level ofexposure to toxic metals. Approximately a full tablespoon of hair is required - it's

better to send too much rather than too little

5. Post to me: (a) sealed hair sample envelope, (b) questionnaire (c) payment

You should be aware of the potential influence of the following:

Hair dyes - colouring agents contain lead acetate. Results may show an elevatedlead level, which should not necessarily be considered as representative of the

body's lead content. Bleaches - can cause an artificial elevation of calcium and magnesium. Samples for

analysis should be taken from the area of new growth closest to the scalp.

Shampoos - medicated shampoos may contribute to elevated levels of elementssuch as zinc and selenium.

Swimming - high levels of copper may be found as a result of the use of coppersulphate in many water purification systems.

Return your sealed envelope, questionnaire and payment (see next page), to:

Nutrition 4 All (Dept 4-HMA), 34 Kynaston Wood, Harrow, HA3 6UA, UK

Any questions: email: [email protected] Or by Tel: 020 8954 9995

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Information Required For Hair Mineral Analysis

First name : Last name:

Address :

:

Post code :

Country :

Phone no. :

Payment email:

Natural hair colour :

Hair taken :

from (if not scalp)

Sex (M/F) : Age: Ethnic origin:

Occupation :

Current :

medication

Current :

medical conditions

Shampoo / :

conditioner / dye in use

Signed: : Date:

Paying for HMA: Please send UK Sterling cheque to "Nutrition 4 All for appropriateamount or see * below for other currencies. My postal address is on page 1.

Amount due : (See below)

Price : 55 for clients first test if no deposit payment has yet been paid

OR : 55 less deposit paid for 1st test ordered after purchase of kit or this ebookOR : 49 for retest when you can quote your name and previous lab number

* PLEASE NOTE:Because my supplier charges me in (Pounds Sterling) my pricingis in Pounds Sterling. I can also take payment as a US $ cheque, a bank transfer (UK) or

send money by PayPal to [email protected] Please convert your currency toPounds Sterling before sending!

Please specify the date and email address payment came through, so I can link to your
mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]

hair meneral analysis

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