Heavy metals can be screened for inexpensively by hair analysis. Although not completely reliable, and subject to contamination, elevated readings would suggest more accurate testing be done. Serum levels are only useful in acute or serious poisonings. Challenge testing by DMSA or DMPS with urine collection or possibly red blood cell heavy metal testing are a more accurate measure of your total body burden of particular heavy metals.
Test for Heavy Metals can help with the following
Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD / ADHD)
Please see the reference cited on the page describing ADD / ADHD (the link where it says “…click here to see full details and recommendations on our web site.”) regarding the presence of lead.
Increased Risk of Alzheimer's / Dementia
Avoid mercury, and detoxify if levels are found elevated. See discussion of Melatonin for details.
Key
| May do some good |
| Likely to help |
| Highly recommended |
Glossary
Hair Analysis
A painless and easy way to test for levels of toxic and essential minerals. A small amount of hair is taken from the nape of the neck and the mineral content of the hair is determined. A computerized analysis reveals the person's condition for the last three months.
Serum
The cell-free fluid of the bloodstream. It appears in a test tube after the blood clots and is often used in expressions relating to the levels of certain compounds in the blood stream.
Acute
An illness or symptom of sudden onset, which generally has a short duration.
Red Blood Cell
Any of the hemoglobin-containing cells that carry oxygen to the tissues and are responsible for the red color of blood.