Most parts of the human body are covered with hair. Each hair strand that grows on different areas in the body has microscopic traits associated particularly to that area. For instance, in forensics, hair samples from the head and pubic regions are commonly used. In other cases, hair can be used to measure the amount of minerals and toxic substances found in the body through hair mineral testing. This is a non-invasive technique that determines the levels of vitamins, minerals, and toxins. During its growth phase, hair absorbs minerals along with heavy metals, which makes it suitable for hair mineral analysis.
To stay healthy, the level of essential minerals present in the body should be maintained within their normal levels. Without these minerals, the body would be unable to metabolize food to yield energy, build and repair tissues, secrete hormones and enzymes, or efficiently use other nutrients. Increased or decreased levels of minerals often result to health disorders. For example, if calcium and magnesium levels are reduced, an individual may experience muscle twitches for he may have trouble sleeping. Excessive sodium and potassium levels may lead to hyperactivity. Other symptoms such as adrenal dysfunction, anxiety, autoimmune diseases, blood sugar imbalance, brain fog, depression, fatigue, headaches, hypertension, irritability, and poor concentration also show an imbalanced mineral level. Serious degenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease, arthritis, autism, fibromyalgia, and multiple sclerosis have been associated with mineral deficiency and heavy metal toxicity.
If the results of hair mineral testing indicate an increased mineral toxicity, it is likely that the minerals were not completely utilized by the body; instead, they remain in connective tissues. This, then, suggests that an individual should change his or her lifestyle in order to push those minerals and properly nourish the body.
Studies have shown that a healthy, shiny hair indicate a healthy heart because foods that are good for the hair have beneficial effects to the heart. Nutrients including protein and iron, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin A help maintain a healthy hair, thereby supporting the individual’s overall health status. For instance, salmon and walnuts contain omega-3 fatty acids; spinach and carrots both have vitamin A; Brazil nuts are a good source of selenium; and cashews and oysters have zinc. These substances, along with low-fat dairy products, vegetables and whole grains, keep the scalp and hair healthy.
Maintaining adequate amounts of macro and trace elements in the body is important to support bodily functions because these minerals are involved in various activities such as bones and teeth formation, nerve conduction, and muscle contraction. Most biochemical processes including digestion, metabolism, and regeneration of tissues also depend on these nutrients for proper functioning.
Individuals may choose to undergo hair mineral testing to determine if they lack the minerals that are vital to their health. Health problems caused by mineral deficiency and heavy metal toxicity can be identified and properly addressed, which pushes them to modify their lifestyle. Through this non-invasive technique, the current health condition may also be measured since hair analysis allows them to take a deeper look at the levels of minerals and gain a better understanding on health along with the factors that influence it.
