Hair tissue mineral analysis (HTMA) testing — what is it?
What is HTMA?
Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) is an analytical test that measures the mineral composition of hair. The HTMA test is one the most valuable and accurate screening tools for everyday and preventative health. HTMA is a very safe and non-invasive (great for children) test that reflects the level of toxic elements and minerals in body tissue.
Hair is primarily composed of dead, keratinised cells that have fused together. The section of the hair protruding from the skin is referred to as the shaft. Below the skin's surface lies the root of the hair, housing living matrix cells responsible for hair growth. These matrix cells rely on the blood supply for growth and nourishment. During their growth and division process, minerals are keratinised into the emerging hair shaft, effectively documenting a lasting account of metabolic activity and exposure to toxic elements.
Studies have demonstrated that hair tissue serves as a valuable indicator of both nutrient deficiencies/imbalances and exposure to toxic elements. Any imbalance in nutrients or excessive presence of toxic elements resulting from health, dietary, or environmental factors will be reflected in the composition of the hair shaft.
Why is it necessary to test for minerals and toxic elements?
Minerals play a fundamental role in promoting growth, facilitating healing, enhancing vitality, and sustaining overall well-being. They contribute to the structural integrity of bones and teeth, regulate the body's pH levels, balance water distribution, affect hormonal function, facilitate nerve function, regulate muscle contractions and support energy production.
In an ideal world, we would get all the minerals that our bodies need from the food that we eat, unfortunately, due to modern farming techniques, fertilisers and depleted soils the mineral content of our food is significantly reduced. Environmental pollutants, chemical food additives, pharmaceuticals, alcohol, and stress also have a detrimental effect on our mineral status.
HTMA provides valuable information on existing health conditions and or symptoms. The results can help with early detection and prevention of conditions, as mineral imbalances are often seen before symptoms occur.
Our health and well-being may be aggravated by mineral imbalances and toxic metal excesses, aggravating conditions including cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, migraines, learning difficulties and hyperactivity in children, to name just a few.
How is the HTMA different from a standard blood test?
Hair is more reliable than blood for detecting long-term changes in mineral levels. It keeps a record of both past and present trace element levels. Unlike blood, hair is less susceptible to the homeostatic mechanisms that quickly affect trace element levels.
Who should have a HTMA?
Honestly, anyone can benefit from a HTMA — the test provides another avenue for the exploration of your health status. Hair samples will pick up imbalances that a routine blood test can miss.
HTMA can be beneficial for:
Children
Adults
Athletes
Fertility
Postpartum
Perimenopause and menopause
Thyroid issues
High blood pressure
Blood sugar imbalances
Osteoporosis
Anxiety
Depression
Hormonal imbalances
Iron deficiency
Immune function (reoccurring illness)
and much more…
I hope you found this information helpful, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to send me an email hello@alexandraking.com.au