What a hair mineral test can tell you

A hair mineral test, also called hair tissue mineral analysis or HTMA, measures minerals like calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc and copper in a small sample of hair, usually snipped from the back of the neck. It also screens for heavy metals such as lead, mercury and cadmium.

Blood levels of many minerals are tightly controlled, so a blood test shows a moment in time. Hair grows slowly, so it offers a longer view of mineral patterns over the past few months. Functional nutritionists often look at the ratios between minerals, like calcium to magnesium, for clues that can guide food and lifestyle choices.

HTMA isn't a diagnosis. Hair dyes and treatments can affect results, and findings are interpreted alongside your history, symptoms and other labs. This is one of the tests I use with clients.