FACTS AND INFORMATION

Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) Why Use Hair? Benefits of HTMA Why test for Minerals? Mineral Imbalances and Health What can cause a Mineral Imbalance?

Why test for Minerals?

Minerals are the spark plugs in the chemistry of life. Their functions range from providing structural support in the formation of bones and teeth, to nerve conduction, muscle contraction, the production of enzyme and hormones such as insulin and the maintenance of the acid-base balance in the body. Research is now recognising their importance in the healthy functioning of the immune system, the fight against ageing and the prevention of chronic degenerative diseases. Minerals and vitamins co-exist in a delicate balance, which is influenced by the activity of the endocrinal glands. The key to understanding the effect of nutrients is to understand these interrelationships. For example, a deficiency of vitamin C leads to a build up of copper to often toxic levels. Too much copper can cause a deficiency of iron, selenium and potassium. Conversely, excess vitamin C can result in copper deficiency leading to iron retention in the body.