Throughout the last century, advances in industrialization, manufacturing, and technology have resulted in ever-increasing amounts of toxic elements being released into the environment. From air pollution, tooth fillings, skin creams, and paint dyes, to batteries, seafood, vegetables, tap water, and dietary supplements, toxic exposure now commonly occurs through a multitude of diverse vectors. Most of these elements remain in the environment long after the original exposure source is gone.

Over a lifetime, these toxic elements may accumulate inside the human body in tissue such as fat and bone, being broken down and eliminated very slowly. Eventually, this increasing toxic burden can trigger a variety of physical and cognitive disorders, including depression, anxiety, memory loss, and fatigue. Even at relatively low levels, toxic elements have the destructive capability to damage nerves and tissue; strong clinical evidence points to their potential role in early neurodevelopment disorders, such as Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, as well as in neurodegenerative conditions of aging such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. Heart disease, impaired kidney function, respiratory illness, weakened immune function, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and increased cancer risk have also been linked to chronic toxic element exposure.

The Toxic Element Exposure Profile assesses levels of 22 potentially damaging elements using a hair sample. A substantial body of scientific literature supports hair analysis as an accurate, reliable gauge of long-term toxic exposure. Because hair follicles are exposed to the blood supply during growth, element concentrations in hair reflect concentration in other body tissues. Should levels be elevated, a variety of clinical and lifestyle interventions can be implemented to reduce toxic burden; follow-up hair testing provides a good indication of long-term treatment effectiveness (after 3-4 months).

How are elements measured?
Elements can be measured in hair, blood, or urine. Each method has its strengths and limitations, and your clinician will select the appropriate method. Hair analysis is regarded as the best evaluation of long term element status, and a blood or urine test is sometimes used as a follow up to a hair test. A blood test might be used to identify more recent exposure.

Why use hair?
Hair analysis is an inexpensive and noninvasive means of measuring elements, often revealing abnormalities not detected through other routine tests. Teeth, nails, and hair concentrate minerals and toxic metals and thus are useful indicators of element status. As most of us are reluctant to part with our teeth or nails, hair is generally used. Also, while elements in blood are kept constant, hair is not subject to this same homeostasis and so can reflect changes before abnormalities are apparent. Because hair element levels correlate closely with organ levels, hair analysis is a valuable tool to be used in conjunction with a physical exam, health history, and other lab tests.

When is hair analysis the wrong choice?
Hair is subject to external contamination, particularly from hair products such as bleaches, perms, or dyes. Therefore, hair treated within the past two months will not provide accurate information. Also, if your clinician suspects very recent toxic exposure, the suspected element may not be reflected in the hair growth. In this case, your physician may choose a blood or urine test.

How much hair is required?
Only about one-quarter of a gram of hair is needed--or about one heaping teaspoon. Hair is generally cut at the nape of the neck, and the hair closest to the scalp is used. Because tiny amounts are taken from several places, it is nearly impossible to notice hair was taken.