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Purpose of running this test:

An ideal starting point for testing is to run a Hair Elements Analysis. The Hair Elements Test gives you a sense of the long term status of both toxic and essential minerals in your body. While the urine and fecal metal tests described in Chapters 2 and 3 are useful, the Hair Elements Test gives you a broader time view of what is going on with the minerals in your system. It takes about three months for the one inch of hair that is closest to your scalp to grow. This is the sample of hair that is tested, so you get a measurement of the amount of the element that was excreted in your hair over that time period.

I look at a Hair Elements Test the same way you would view counting the rings on a cross section of a tree to know how old the tree is. While fecal and urine testing give you up to the moment data, the amount of an element excreted on the day you collected the sample, the Hair Elements Test gives you a historical sense of the major areas of mineral balance to focus on. An example of the centrality and the value of the Hair Elements Test data I have been accumulating over the past decade is my finding that low lithium is a key feature for adults as well as children with a range of health issues.

Lithium plays a role in B12 transport into the cell. B12 functions at a very critical juncture in the process of making methyl groups, as well as a range of other functions in your body. You want to be certain that you have adequate lithium in your body prior to adding high doses of B12 because of the interaction of lithium with B12 transport. If you add B12 and other supplements that activate what I call the long route around the methylation cycle, the route that uses Methionine Synthase (MTR) and Methionine Synthase Reductase (MTRR), prior to being sure that you have enough lithium in your body, then you run the risk of further depleting your lithium levels, which can cause symptoms and consequences.

It is also important to be sure that potassium is in balance and well supported when adding lithium. Addressing both minerals at the same time is useful, as low levels of both lithium and potassium can induce aggressive and anti-social behavior. Energy supplements can also impact lithium levels, as well as a number of other minerals, including potassium. If there is not sufficient energy being generated by the mitochondria in your cells, this can cause low lithium, low potassium, and problems maintaining adequate levels of other minerals. Mitochondrial support can be a help in these cases.

The Hair Elements Test also gives you a sense of the balance between calcium and magnesium, as well as zinc and copper. Ideally magnesium should be higher than calcium, because calcium works with glutamate to cause over excitation of nerves. Excess copper relative to zinc can be a factor in attention problems. Correct copper and zinc levels are also important for neurotransmitter balance, since copper is a cofactor for the enzymes that break down dopamine and serotonin.

The Hair Elements Test is also useful in determining molybdenum balance. Molybdenum and B12 work together with the enzyme sulfite oxidase to detoxify sulfate from your body. Sulfur levels on the Hair Elements Test can be seen as a secondary measure of your need for molybdenum and B12 support. If the sulfur on your Hair Elements Test is high, you want to be sure that your body has adequate levels of molybdenum and B12.

Those who are SHMT +, or who have significant bacterial imbalances, should limit iron supplementation, or use nutrients to help balance iron if the levels are high on a Hair Elements Test or Urine Toxic & Essential Elements Test. Iron can increase bacterial virulence, and it increases the activity of the SHMT pathway, so ideally, serum iron levels should be checked. Consider also checking Ferritin, Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC), % Saturation, and your Reticulocyte Count for a complete reading on iron if you are concerned about your iron levels.

The Hair Elements Test gives you useful information on additional essential minerals, as well as a sense of the level of toxic metal excretion from your body. When you know what toxins are being excreted, you can supplement with compounds that may help escort them from your body. Different ‘escorts’ are applicable for different toxic metals. Aluminum requires different escorts than mercury or nickel. I suggest running a Hair Elements Test at least twice a year, and for those individuals who are MTR +, or who show very low lithium levels on a Hair Elements Test, then running a Hair Elements Test every 3 to 4 months to be certain that essential elements stay in balance is a good idea.

Finally, when there is a high level of excretion of many essential minerals at the same time, meaning if you are seeing black lines to the right for multiple essential minerals, this can be a sign that more mitochondrial support is needed. In this case, running an Organics Acid (Nutritional) Test to look at energetic markers, as well as adding additional mitochondrial support, can be considered. Extremely low potassium and lithium, in the absence of an MTR + status, may also be a sign that more mitochondrial support is needed.

TOXIC METALS This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as always.
Aluminum Aluminum can impact the Krebs energy cycle, so consider a Organics Basic Profile (OBP) or Organic Comprehensive Profile (OCP) if high levels are seen on a HMT. Also, aluminum can negatively impact tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels, which in turn affects dopamine, serotonin and melatonin levels. A Neopterin / Biopterin Profile Urine Test can be run to help evaluate BH4 levels. Consider adding MetalAway, or selenium, horsetail grass, low dose EDTA, and malic acid. Also, you can use additional EDTA and EDTA soap or soak as tolerated. IF you do not have shellfish allergies, consider using BactiSolve. Use MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules and/or BH4 to help support BH4 levels. Consider Vitamin E succinate if succinate levels are low on an OBP Test or OCP Test. You can also run a UAA test to look at phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan levels as another means to determine the need to consider BH4 support. If you and your doctor want to push harder on excretion of toxins including aluminum, you can consider the DetoxAway supplement, but as always work with and defer to your own doctor.
Antimony Antimony can bind to ‘thiol’, which means SH groups. These SH groups are needed to help escort mercury from your system. Also, antimony may inhibit the MAO enzymes, which may interfere with the natural breakdown of dopamine and serotonin. Antimony can accumulate in your adrenals and thus play a role in fatigue. Consider adding sources of ‘thiol’ groups, such as Selenium, MetalAway, or DetoxAway. Consider low dose Wasabi, low dose Selenocysteine, and/or low dose Ion Transport compound, which has both Wasabi and Selenocysteine. Broccoli and Garlic are also options. Also, consider OraAdrenal for adrenal support.
Arsenic Methylation cycle function is needed for arsenic excretion. If arsenic is consistently high, consider running a Drinking Water Analysis Test to test your home water supply that is used for bathing, as well as your drinking water. Arsenic can bind both to thiol, which are SH groups, as well as phosphate groups. It can cause vitamin A deficiency. Symptoms of arsenic toxicity can include white streaked nails, a garlic odor emanating from your body, and/or under pigmentation. Arsenic toxicity may also cause hair loss, problems with folate uptake, or weakness, among other symptoms.At the very least, use short cut methylation support, support for the pathway that goes from homocysteine to methionine using the BHMT enzyme. All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend all support the short cut. If lithium is in balance, also support the long route, the route that uses the MTR and MTRR enzymes. These supports include low dose Folinic +, Methyl Folate 5-MTHF Mega Drops, and B12. Also, thiol supports may be useful, such as Selenium, MetalAway, orDetoxAway; low dose Wasabi, low dose Selenocysteine, or low dose Ion Transport compound, which has both Wasabi and Selenocysteine. Broccoli may also be helpful. To support phosphate, use phospholipids such as Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC) and Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, ATP and MitoForce.
Barium Barium can displace potassium, and may cause an increase in stress hormones. It may also cause tingling and weakness of muscles.Consider potassium support with Potassium Citrate. If Krebs intermediates are low on an OBP Test or OCP Test, then use Krebs Magnesium-Potassium. If gut pH is very low then consider Potassium Bicarbonate. Also, Stress Foundation nucleotide blend and low dose Muscle Support nucleotide blend may be a help. In addition, Padma Basic may help with weak muscles and restless leg syndrome if they are issues.
Beryllium High levels of beryllium may affect lymphocyte proliferation and respiratory function, as well as cause adrenal insufficiency and fatigue. Consider T cell and B cell support capsules for immune support. OraAdrenal may also be used for additional support. The Muscle Fatigue Support compound supplement can be considered if fatigue is an issue. Low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend may also be helpful.
Bismuth High level excretion of bismuth, in the absence of any bismuth supplementation, may be an indicator for H. pylori, so testing to rule out H. pylori should be considered. Since high level bismuth excretion in the absence of any support can lead to depletion of bismuth over time, consider low level bismuth support with Peptimycin or its equivalent. Rule out H. pylori.
Cadmium High levels of cadmium can cause significant symptoms. Your body uses zinc as a cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. However, if zinc is deficient, your body will replace it with cadmium. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic table, so it fits perfectly into zinc binding sites. Enzymes that make protein, such as RNA transferase, and alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme involved in alcohol processing, are impacted by this problem. Other important enzymes are also negatively impacted. Cadmium may also bind to glutathione (GSH) making it ineffective. It may also negatively impact bone health and cause respiratory symptoms. Consider supporting with Zinc Lozenges. Krebs Zinc can be added if your Krebs intermediates are low on an OBP Test or OCP Test. Also, consider MetalAway and/or EDTA and EDTA soap to help escort cadmium from your system. Since cadmium can bind GSH, consider supporting with GSH. Low dose Bone Support nucleotide blend may also be helpful. Cadmium may decrease the Cytochrome P450 enzyme system, so consider I-3-C Plus (Indole-3-Carbinol and DIM) capsules to support CYP 450. Since cadmium replaces zinc in arteries, adults may want to consider low dose Heart Support nucleotide blend and Hawthorn Berry. Also, consider Vitamin E and low dose Ion Transport support capsules for high cadmium, to help prevent the cadmium induced suppression of the CFTR enzyme. Also, work on supporting methylation, as weak methylation capacity is related to susceptibility to cadmium. In addition, lithium, which is in both BeCalm Spray and All in One, may help to protect against the negative impacts of cadmium, especially with respect to hormones such as testosterone, LH, and FSH.
Lead Lead can deposit in bone and replace calcium there. Lead can also affect ATPase, which reduces the production of this energy molecule. This negatively impacts both sodium and potassium levels, as well as energy production. Lead can bind melatonin, tryptophan, and serotonin. Consider an OBP Test or OCP Test and a Neurotransmitter Urine Test to look at energy markers, as well as neurotransmitter levels. Lead excretion can cause pica, teeth/jaw grinding & aggression. Eating inedible objects may be a sign that lead is being excreted. You may need to consider support to help escort it from your system. Elevated 5-amino levulinic acid (ALA) due to lead toxicity can inhibit Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA), so consider extra GABA if needed. Since lead replaces calcium in bones, consider low dose Bone Support nucleotide blend. Vitamin D and K impact calcium absorption, so add a mineral combination that includes vitamin D and K, such as Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK. Also, for bone health, watch strontium and boron levels. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules to support strontium and boron. Also, consider EDTA and MetalAway (or selenium + horsetail grass + low dose EDTA + malic acid) to help escort lead from your system. Also, use additional EDTA in EDTA soap or soak as tolerated. Consider using BactiSolve if you have no shellfish allergies, as another source of EDTA. Consider ATP and/or MitoForce to support ATPase.
Mercury In addition to a wide range of neurological symptoms, mercury can also cause increased salivation, rashes, and metallic taste in your mouth. It can impact cytochrome P450, and may replace selenium in the T4 to T3 reaction, thus causing thyroid hormone imbalances.Consider support with Selenium or MetalAway. If more detox is desired, consider DetoxAway. Also, GSH and I-3-C Plus (Indole-3-Carbinol and DIM) capsules may be used. Ultimately, you can support re-myelination with Sphingolin. Work on methylation cycle support to allow the natural detox of mercury. Also, the use of low dose Ion Transport compound may help support detox because it contains Selenocysteine and Wasabi to aid in escorting mercury from your system. Basic methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is shown to be in balance on a HMT, then consider low doseFolinic + and Methyl Folate 5-MTHF Mega Drops, along with extra B12.
Platinum Platinum can cause wheezing, excessive mucous in your nose, and dermatitis. Consider Zinc Lozenges and low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend. Also, Serraflazyme and Air Power and the Muscle Fatigue Support compound can help with mucous.
Thallium Thallium inhibits mitochondrial energy and ATP. It also inhibits DNA and RNA synthesis. It may cause hair loss and anorexia. Thallium can also cause riboflavin to be sequestered in the body, so Riboflavin-5-Phosphate support should be considered, especially if OBP Test or OCP Test results show imbalances in the Krebs energy cycle. Consider support with ATPRiboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to address the impact of thallium on energy. Also, use All in One for low dose DNA and RNA support, and AHCY/SHMT compound or direct addition of nucleotides.
Thorium Thorium can bind to digestive enzymes. Consider Special Digestive Enzymes. Run a CSA test and GI Test to check on digestion.
Uranium Uranium can readily combine with nucleotides in your body and can deposit in your bones. It can also cause chronic fatigue. Test your home water supply with a Drinking Water Analysis Test, and do a radon air test if you continue to excrete high levels of uranium over time. Consider All in One for low dose nucleotide support. Consider AHCY/SHMT compound for nucleotide support, or direct nucleotide supplementation. Consider using Muscle Fatigue Support compound and low dose Bone Support nucleotide blend. Consider Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK so that vitamin D and K are present to help with calcium absorption. To support your DNA in the presence of high levels of uranium, also consider Ultifend and Quercetin.
Nickel Nickel can cause significant skin rashes, allergies, dermatitis and inflammation. Consider Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, especially when phosphorus is low and nickel toxicity is present. Consider nucleotide blends such as General Support nucleotide blend and Cytokine Balance nucleotide blend to help with itching. Clear Skin spray may be used for topical skin support.
Silver Excess silver may cause a blue gray color to your skin. Consider MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules and low dose Liver Support nucleotide blend to support your liver, as well as GSH to help with toxin excretion.
Tin Tin may cause liver pain, and may be more of an issue if your system tends to be acidic. Check your pH on a CSA test or GI Test, and/or use pH strips on first morning urine samples. Work to get pH to around 7 with Buffer pH, VitaOrgan, and/or Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend. If your potassium is low, then consider Potassium Bicarbonate. Also, consider I-3-C Plus (Indole-3-Carbinol and DIM) capsules to support cytochrome P450 enzymes that may be decreased due to tin. Also, consider Special Digestive Enzymes. Consider MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules, and low dose Liver Support nucleotide blend for liver support.
Titanium Titanium may be a factor in respiratory issues. Consider GSH and low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend.
ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS This table contains the rationale behind my suggestions. These suggestions are for your consideration. Defer your choices to your own health care practitioner, as always.
Calcium Ideally, your test will show more magnesium relative to calcium. Excess calcium can work with glutamate to cause excitotoxicity, so high levels of calcium may cause symptoms if glutamate is also high. Your goal for calcium is to be in the low range of normal, with magnesium in the high range of normal. Since vitamin D and K help with calcium absorption, less calcium support may be needed if vitamin D and K are supplemented. Check to see if boron is being dumped, as boron is often dumped with low vitamin D. So, high level calcium and boron dumping may indicate a need for Vitamin D. If calcium is higher than 650ppm or 65%, it may indicate copper toxicity. There may be a greater need for calcium support with a high protein diet. Guaifenisen, which is used for chronic fatigue, may help pull down high calcium. Guaifenisen is low dose in Muscle Fatigue Support compound, or in Air Power. Other supplements used to help control high calcium include Vinpocetine, Boswellia, ATP and/or MitoForce. These may support better calcium balance because they support mitochondrial function, and mitochondria may act as sinks to buffer the effects of calcium overload. Potassium, and the phosphorus in Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, may reduce high level calcium dumping in urine. If calcium levels are too low, consider herbs that support calcium in a complexed form, such as Nettle, Chamomile, or Chervil. The use of Cal/Mag/VitD/VitK compound also supports calcium in a balanced fashion. Low calcium can play a role in back pain, menstrual cramps, and brittle nails. Boron deficiency may cause dumping of calcium and magnesium in urine, in which case consider the Bone Support capsules.
Magnesium Magnesium can help if you have excess glutamate in your system. It is preferable to have higher magnesium relative to calcium in your body, because calcium works with glutamate to cause over excitation of nerves, and magnesium helps to balance this. Boron deficiency may cause dumping of calcium and magnesium in urine. Check boron to be sure that it is not causing low magnesium levels. Low taurine can cause magnesium dumping, so be sure methylation support is in place to support healthy taurine levels. You do not want very high taurine levels, nor do you want low levels. The goal is taurine in a normal range. This can be measured on a UAA test. Low dietary magnesium may contribute to aluminum-induced degenerative conditions. Consider support with Magnesium Citrate, Magnesium Oxide, or Magnesium Malate. Magnesium glycinate is non-optimal, as glycine can exacerbate glutamate toxicity if your levels of glutamate are high. Amino acid chelates of minerals are not always ideal, especially if you have symptoms of excitotoxicity, because they include glutamate and aspartate. I occasionally recommend them, and we do stock them, so just be aware of this when you are ordering minerals.Basic methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is shown to be in balance on a HMT, then consider low dose Folinic +, Methyl Folate 5-MTHF Mega Drops, and extra B12.
Sodium Your goal is to keep sodium in the normal range, without its being too low or excreted to a high degree. The use of Ion Transport compound and low dose Ion Transport Support nucleotide blend may be a help. Sodium is co-absorbed with a range of other nutrients, such as amino acids, glucose and peptides, so supporting healthy ion transport can be useful.Since sodium and potassium transport across your cell membrane uses energy, consider ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to support sodium/potassium ATPase. Also, consider using low dose Ion Transport compound and low dose Ion Transport Support nucleotide blend. In addition, the use of Sodium or Potassium Bicarbonate may be considered if your pH is low on a CSA test or GI Test, as a way to support both sodium and a more balanced pH.
Potassium Potassium levels drop coordinately with low lithium, so support potassium when you are taking lithium. Low potassium can cause rubidium levels to drop. Your body replaces potassium with rubidium when potassium is deficient. This can create a rubidium deficit, which is a factor in aggressive behavior. Use potassium to support rubidium. Potassium levels that are less than 50ppm or 5%, may indicate copper toxicity. Barium and cesium may displace or interfere with potassium function. Additional potassium support may be needed if you have high levels of barium or cesium excretion. Also, low levels of potassium may be caused by hydrogen sulfide (H2S) triggering efflux of potassium, so check sulfur levels on the HMT and UEE, as well as taurine levels on a UAA. High levels of taurine on a UAA may indicate higher than ideal H2S levels in your system, which can then cause low potassium levels. Low levels of potassium can be a factor in the production of acne. Potassium Citrate can be used along with food sources of potassium to support potassium. If your pH is low on a CSA test or GI Test, then Potassium Bicarbonate can be used both to support potassium and to help balance pH. If Krebs intermediates are low on an OBP Test or OCP Test, consider Potassium Krebs Intermediates if you do not have glutamate/ GABA imbalance. Potassium transport across the cell membrane is an energetic process, so consider ATP, Riboflavin-5-Phosphate, and/or MitoForce to support sodium/potassium ATPase if your potassium is low. Arginine may have a positive impact on potassium levels. Those who struggle with consistently low potassium, especially athletes, may consider low dose Arginine support if your levels of arginine are low on a UAA test. AminoAssist is one source of low dose arginine.
Copper Ideally, your copper levels should be lower than zinc to favor a higher zinc to copper ratio. High copper has been implicated in ADD. Copper is the cofactor that works with the enzymes MAO A and MAO B to break down dopamine and serotonin, so high copper may engender a higher degree of degradation of these two neurotransmitters. Running a Neurotransmitter Urine Test and an OBP Test or OCP Test gives you an indication of both the levels of serotonin and dopamine, and a measure of their breakdown. Excess copper has also been reported to cause fearful thoughts. If copper replaces zinc in your brain, it may be a factor in migraines, so zinc support may help you with this, as well as bring your copper into better balance. Much less frequently, the issue is actually low copper. Low copper may cause high histamine. The enzyme that breaks down histamine is a copper containing MAO type of enzyme, so if your copper is low, check to see if your histamine is high. Quercetin will help pull down histamine but inhibits COMT, so use quercetin in moderation. A natural source of quercetin is cherries. Cherries are also a source of melatonin. Tart Cherry Extract is reported to be helpful for gout. Low copper may also be a factor in de-pigmentation of hair and skin. Ways to help bring copper into better balance include the use of Molybdenum, Zinc, Carnosine, and increased EDTA. EDTA is found in MetalAway, EDTA soap or soak, and DetoxAway. You can also use BactiSolve if you have NO shellfish allergies. Check molybdenum levels, because often copper will be high when molybdenum is too low. Molybdenum can be low due to high taurine, which is measured on a UAA test. When taurine is processed via sulfite oxidase, molybdenum can become depleted. In addition, high levels of sulfur can have the same effect of depleting molybdenum. Molybdenum may also be depleted due to chronic yeast infections, which can be checked on a Vaginosis Test, or in the gut via a CSA test or GI Test. An alkaline environment limits copper, so work to get pH in balance, meaning having a pH close to 7. You can use Buffer pH, Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend, Potassium Bicarbonate or sodium bicarbonate, depending on your need for either sodium or potassium. VitaOrgan also helps to balance your pH.
Zinc As with magnesium, zinc helps to control the calcium and glutamate interaction that can lead to over excitation of nerves. Doses of zinc above 40 mg per day can actually stimulate excitotoxin activity, so your goal is to keep zinc in the high range of normal with under 40 mg of supplementation per day. A deficiency of zinc may cause poor wound healing, poor ability to smell or taste, and night blindness. Iron interferes with zinc absorption, so keeping iron in proper balance is an important factor in achieving proper zinc levels. When iron replaces zinc, it may cause blood sugar imbalances, so consider support for the pancreas and pancreatic enzymes such as SDE when zinc is low. Your body uses zinc as a cofactor for over 50 critical enzymes. It prefers it. However, if zinc is deficient, your body will replace it with cadmium or lead, both of which are toxic metals. Cadmium is just below zinc in the periodic table of the elements, so it fits perfectly into zinc binding sites. Cadmium may replace zinc in enzymes that make important proteins, such as RNA transferase and alcohol dehydrogenase, the enzyme involved in alcohol processing. These enzymes do not function properly with cadmium replacing zinc. Cadmium may also replace zinc in metallothionein, an important heavy metal binding agent. When zinc is low, lead can replace zinc in heme enzymes and impact the formation of red blood cells. So it is important to keep zinc in the high normal range. Some studies suggest that low zinc may increase the activity of the enzyme methionine synthase (MTR). This could in turn lead to lower lithium levels and exacerbate MTR + status. Low dose methionine support, which is contained in AminoAssist, may be helpful in these cases, along with lithium support as indicated on this HMTZinc Lozenges are the form of zinc that is particularly helpful and well absorbed. Consider Zinc Krebs Intermediates if your levels of Krebs intermediates are low on an OBP Test or OCP Test, and you do not have glutamate/GABA symptoms. If your iron is high on a HMT or UEE, consider AHCY/SHMT compound and/or Lactoferrin to help keep iron in better balance. Support your pancreas with VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules, Ora-Pancreas, and/or Special Digestive Enzymes if your zinc is low and iron is high, to help with blood sugar balance. When your zinc is low, consider Heart Support nucleotide blend and Hawthorn Berry if you are an adult. Cadmium can replace zinc in the atrial wall of your heart and may cause decreased flexibility and strength. Coffee may impair zinc uptake and may lead to a need for increased zinc support.
Manganese Manganese is important for helping to process arginine, so consider supporting with low dose Manganese if arginine is high on a UAA test. However, high levels of manganese are a concern for the reasons described below. Ideally, your manganese levels should be in the lower range of normal so that they are sufficient to support reactions that require manganese without allowing levels to climb too high. Proper manganese levels are important to preserve acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter. Low manganese can also impair the function of your Krebs energy cycle. Low levels of manganese can cause hearing loss and low sex drive. Low manganese can cause low cholesterol, imbalances in alkaline phosphatase levels, and decreased T cells. Most bacteria use iron for growth, but Borrelia burgdorferi uses manganese, so low manganese may be seen in Lyme disease. Manganese levels may also drop with H. pylori infection. Consider ruling out H. pylori or Lyme disease if you have chronically low levels of manganese. Iron can compete with manganese for uptake, so be sure iron is in balance. To support low levels of manganese, consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules, Manganese Drops, and Glucosamine/Chondroitin Plus. Consider T cell and B cell support capsules immune support. AHCY/SHMT compound or Lactoferrin may help to get iron in better balance. Conversely, excessively high levels of manganese can cause psychosis as well as seizures. Excessive accumulation of manganese causes a neurological condition called “manganism” that is characterized by psychosis and eventually followed by symptoms similar to those seen in Parkinson’s disease. High levels of manganese have also been associated with ALS and biochemical changes similar to Alzheimer’s and Huntington’s disease (Sidoryk-Wegrzynowicz, 2013). High levels of manganese can cause increases in reactive oxygen species, (consider Ultifend), impair glutathione levels (consider GSH) and increase inflammatory mediators (consider General Support nucleotide blend and low dose TNF nucleotide blend). High dose manganese may also decrease dopamine levels. Toxic doses of manganese can impact both GABA and taurine levels and affect their transport. If an individual is intolerant to GABA supplementation in spite of symptoms that suggest a need for GABA, then check manganese levels to be sure they are not exceedingly high. The use of valerian root in conjunction with low dose GABA may be a consideration for you and your doctor, as valerian may aid in GABA transport. If high manganese is the issue, consider increased EDTA support. Working with and deferring to your own doctor, consider the use of MetalAway DetoxAwayEDTA soap and soak, and additional EDTA capsules.If very high levels are seen, rule out high manganese in your home water supply by using the Drinking Water Analysis Test. Some defective water filtration systems may be a source of higher than ideal levels of manganese in your drinking and bathing water supply.
Chromium Low levels of chromium can be factors in ADD and anxiety. Low levels of chromium may also be associated with blood sugar imbalances. Support can include Chromium Picolinate and VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules.
Vanadium High levels of vanadium may be related to bipolar symptoms. Vanadium can bind to iron complexes, so be sure iron is in balance. Consider AHCY/SHMT compound or Lactoferrin to help with iron balance. Low vanadium levels may be an issue for blood sugar balance. Consider using Vanadyl Sulfate, depending on your sulfur levels, and VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules for low vanadium.
Molybdenum Molybdenum is critical for sulfite oxidase function, the enzyme that processes sulfite to sulfate. Those who are sulfur sensitive should keep a close eye on molybdenum levels. Sulfite oxidase follows CBS in the transsulfuration pathway, so excess CBS activity can put more pressure on sulfite oxidase and generate a need for molybdenum. Molybdenum is also needed to help keep copper in balance. High copper has a number of non-optimal effects, including allowing the increased breakdown of dopamine and serotonin. Molybdenum is also needed for xanthine oxidase function. Significant xanthine oxidase may be present in homogenized milk, so those drinking milk may have a need for molybdenum support. Those who have high levels of tungsten may need molybdenum support, as tungsten competes with molybdenum. Those who are MTR + often show lower levels of molybdenum, so more frequent HMT and UEE should be run to be sure molybdenum stays in balance. Molybdenum can be supported with Molybdenum Capsules, MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules, Black Bear Spray, or Black Bear Drink. Molybdenum Drops can also be used, although the liquid form is complexed with ammonia so this is not the preferred form of support.
Boron Low vitamin D levels may relate to low boron levels, so additional boron support may be needed in areas of low sunlight during the winter. Also, those who are MTR + may tend to have lower boron levels. Low boron may cause dumping of calcium and magnesium in urine. Check boron levels when there is high level excretion of magnesium and calcium in your urine. Bone Support capsule and/or MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules can be added to help balance boron levels.
Iodine Low iodine can negatively impact your thyroid gland’s ability to produce thyroid hormone, and cause bulging eyes, goiter, and a whole host of other symptoms. Low iodine can cause excessive sweating, hair loss, dry skin and hair, as well as hand tremors. High levels of iodine support may interfere with lithium levels. Since lithium is important for B12 transport, be sure your lithium is in the normal to high normal range, while keeping iodine in balance. Ideally, lithium should be higher than iodine with both within normal range. Iodoral can be used to support iodine. A topical iodine test can be used both to test and to support iodine levels. The topical iodine test is done as follows: apply a 2% solution of iodine in a circular area about the size of silver dollar on your abdomen. The spot should be allowed to dry completely before putting clothing over it, because iodine can permanently stain clothes. The spot should remain visible for 12 to 24 hours. If the iodine disappears within 12 hours, it may indicate iodine deficiency, which can be confirmed with this HMT. The skin absorbs iodine at the rate at which it is needed, so applying iodine topically replaces it, as well as gives you a broad stroke idea of its internal levels. Iodine levels can also be checked using the Urine Iodine Test.
Lithium

The role of lithium in B12 transport into the cell is potentially critically important. Peer reviewed work by Tisman, Herbert, and Rosenblatt published in the British Journal of Haematology was the first to illustrate that ingestion of lithium is related to B12 binding. Continuing this research, Vanyo and coworkers (Lithium in Biology and Medicine) discuss the finding that lack of lithium and B12 deficiency share physiological features, and that support with lithium enhances B12 transport into cells. According to these researchers, lithium is associated with elevated levels of serum B12 binding capacity. Furthermore, this group was able to show that lithium increases the transport of folate into the cell, as well as that of B12.

Additional peer reviewed work by Schrauzer (Biological Trace Element Research) also supports the role of lithium in B12 transport. The addition of lithium was shown by Cervantes et al to lower elevated serum B12 levels, again illustrating lithium’s effecting B12 transport into cells.

Based on this research, it is important to look at lithium levels. I use the HMT and the UTMEE in combination with each other to assess both lithium as well as cobalt levels (as a measure of B12). You may also want to look at serum lithium and B12. In cases in which lithium is low and/or serum B12 is particularly high, use lithium support prior to the addition of high dose B12. Lithium support is in All in One, Be Calm Spray, and Lithium Orotate.

Use these with the consent of your doctor. The rationale behind this is to ensure that you have adequate lithium prior to adding high dose B12, because increasing B12 in the absence of lithium support may further deplete lithium levels due to the use of lithium to aid in the transport of the added B12. Ideally, lithium should be in balance prior to adding excess B12 so as not to create lithium depletion. Low dose maintenance nutritional levels of lithium support are available in All in One and Be Calm Spray.

Lithium plays a range of additional roles in your body aside from B12 and folate transport into your cells, so it is important not to deplete this pivotal trace mineral. Lithium’s impact on mood stabilization has been known and used clinically for many years, despite the fact that the mechanism by which this occurs has not been fully elaborated. Norepinephrine imbalances have been implicated in attention disorders, and Sastre and coworkers have illustrated an impact of lithium on balancing norepinephrine levels.

Researchers have noted and published effects from lithium on neurological conditions. Beta amyloid may play a role in Alzheimers Disease and lithium has been shown to have neuroprotective effects against beta amyloid. Research from Spain illustrates that lithium has a positive impact on neural repair after traumatic injury. Maurer (2009) showed that lithium can enable mitochondrial function, which may be particularly useful in the presence of toxic metals. Increases in the grey matter of the brain have been tied to lithium support (Moore) and research from the National Institute of Health (NIH) showed the induction of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) by lithium. Especially relevant to this program, lithium was reported by Hashimoto (2002) to protect against glutamate excitotoxity.

In addition, lithium has been implicated in Lyme disease, as well as having an impact on Herpes virus (Amsterdam et al).

Lithium may also help to support healthy tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) levels.

Lithium stimulates white cells and platelets, so low levels of lithium may cause low white cells. Myrrh may help for low white cells.

Those who are MTR + tend to have lower lithium levels.

Ideally, lithium should be in balance before adding extra B12Folinic +, or Methyl Folate 5-MTHF Mega DropsMethyl Folate 5-MTHF Mega Drops is low dose 5-methylTHF.

For general lithium support, consider All in One and Be Calm Spray. Always support potassium when supplementing lithium.

For levels that are particularly low, consider Lithium Orotate plus some form of potassium, usually Potassium Citrate. Run regular HMT to assess lithium levels when adding lithium orotate. Those who are MTR + should do a HMT every 3 to 4 months.

High level excretion of lithium in the absence of any lithium supplementation suggests that excretion will lead to future depletion. Thus, lithium should be added when lithium is either very low, or when high level excretion is seen in the absence of any lithium supplementation.

Low lithium may also be an issue secondary to a need for mitochondrial energy support. An OBP Test or OCP Test can be run to look at energy markers. Support for mitochondrial energy can include MitoForceATPRiboflavin-5-PhosphateNADHKrebs minerals.

Phosphorus If your phosphate is low, then your leucine may be high. According to published literature, if phosphate is low, then leucine may be increased, which in turn may increase glutamate and alpha KG. This can potentially cause hypoglycemia. Your level of leucine can be checked on a UAA. Consider phosphate support when phosphate is low, when hypoglycemia is an issue, when glutamate and leucine are high on a UAA test, or when alpha ketoglutarate is either very high or very low on an OBP Test or OCP Test. Cross referencing between these tests is helpful when problem solving. Supplementing phosphorus may help with excessive dumping of calcium in your urine. Copper toxicity may be a factor when phosphorus is low. Check your copper levels. Riboflavin-5-Phosphate can help support phosphorus, especially if nickel toxicity is present. Also ATP and/or MitoForce help to support phosphorus. Phospholipids such as Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC) and nucleic acids such as RNA can also support phosphorus. Vitamin D may help with phosphorus absorption. Pumpkin seeds are a natural source of phosphorus.
Selenium Selenium may become depleted with high level mercury excretion, as well as with the excretion of a number of other toxic metals. Consider extra selenium support when toxic metal excretion is observed. If selenium levels are low on a HMT, consider additional support.Selenium is essential for the conversion of T4 to T3, T3 being the active form of thyroid hormone. The de-iodinase enzymes that remove iodine atoms from T4 during its conversion to T3 are selenium-dependent. So, consider selenium when you have low thyroid symptoms. PABA, found in Ultimate B, and Niacinamide can be considered as additional support for those who have indications of autoimmune thyroid issues. Very high levels of selenium are toxic, so the goal is to be within normal range for this mineral. Methylation cycle function is needed to remove excess selenium, so until methylation support is in place, and you know you have good methylation pathway function, do not use high dose selenium. Consider support with MetalAway or other sources of Selenium. Low dose Ion Transport compound is a source of selenocystene, or consider low dose Selenocysteine. GSH and Vitamin E succinate can aid in maintaining selenium levels. Excretion of mercury, antimony, arsenic, and/or thorium may lead to a greater need for selenium support. DetoxAway can be considered for higher dose support during detox once effective methylation support is in place. As always, work with your doctor. Basic methylation support includes All in One, Phosphatidyl Serine Complex (PS/PE/PC), DHA and Methylation Support nucleotide blend. Once lithium is shown to be in balance on a HMT, then add low dose Folinic +Methyl Folate 5-MTHF Mega Drops, and extra B12 in the appropriate form.
Strontium Strontium levels tend to be lower for those who are MTR +. Consider MTR/MTRR/SUOX capsules if your strontium is low, or being excreted excessively in the face of no supplementation.
Sulfur High levels of sulfur can put excessive pressure on SUOX, the sulfite oxidase enzyme, which appears below the cystathionine beta synthase (CBS) enzyme in the transsulfuration pathway portion of the methylation cycle. Increased CBS activity can free excessive sulfur groups that use SUOX, which may then become depleted. The SUOX enzyme needs B12 and molybdenum for activity. So, high sulfur can result in increased usage of B12 and molybdenum that are needed for other functions in your body. Low molybdenum can mediate an increase in copper, and unbalance your zinc/copper ratio, which can then affect attention, reduce heavy metal detox, and cause other symptoms. Depletion of B12 can limit enzyme activity in the long route, the reaction in your methylation cycle that uses the MTR and MTRR enzymes. If your sulfur levels are high, consider using additional Molybdenum and B12 once your lithium is in balance on a HMT. You may also consider using Black Bear Spray or Black Bear Drink, which is a combination form of molybdenum and B12. Do a UAA test to be sure that your taurine levels are not high, as high taurine can also put excessive pressure on the sulfite oxidase enzyme. For low levels of sulfur support, use healthy sulfur donors that have other positive attributes such as Garlic, Broccoli, Wasabi, SAM-e, or N-Acetyl Cysteine.
Cobalt All forms of B12, hydroxyl, adenosyl, methyl, and cyano, contain the element cobalt. It is possible to follow cobalt levels on a HMT and UEE as a method for tracking B12 ingestion. Blood B12 levels can also be directly measured. If cobalt is low, first check that lithium is in balance before adding high dose B12. As you increase B12 support, follow with regular HMT testing to be sure lithium stays in balance. There are several forms of B12. Hydroxy B12 is usually well tolerated and is used by everyone on this protocol. Adenosyl B12 is also usually well tolerated. It is often a help for high methylmalonic acid (MMA) levels on an  OBP Test or OCP Test, as well as to help process fats when used in conjunction with Biotin. MethylB12 may be tolerated by those who are COMT – and some who are COMT + -. It is used in limited ways in my protocol.
Iron Excess iron is pro-oxidant and drives bacterial virulence, so high iron on this test may indicate issues with bacterial imbalances. If your iron is above the 50th percentile, consider a CSA test and GI Test to check for unbalanced, non-optimal organisms in your gut. Adult females may want to run a Vaginosis Test in addition, to check for bacteria and yeast. Iron helps to increase SHMT activity, which diverts methylation intermediates from both the MTR/MTRR enzyme reaction, what I call the long route around the methylation pathway, and the BHMT enzyme reaction, the short cut. Limiting iron is particularly important for those who are SHMT +. Iron can bind tryptophan, so it may reduce serotonin levels. H2S frees up iron, so check taurine and sulfur levels. If taurine and sulfur are high, then consider that excess iron may be an issue. Levels of iron are increased with humic acid, which is in part why humic acid is not a part of this program. Humic acid may cause lipid peroxidation. High iron levels may be related to high methionine, so if your methionine is high on a UAA test, check your iron levels. Lactoferrin and/or AHCY/SHMT compound may help bind and transport iron to where it is needed in your body. Also, if your iron is high, work to shift acidic environments to alkaline environments, because acid increases iron. So, consider Buffer pH, VitaOrgan, and/or Stomach pH Balancing nucleotide blend. Either sodium bicarbonate or Potassium Bicarbonate can be used to help balance pH depending on your need for sodium or potassium. Check pH on a CSA test, GI Test, or by testing urine with pH strips. Also, consider VDR/FOK Pancreatic Support capsules, because iron can cause blood sugar issues when it replaces zinc.If you need iron support, then complexed herbal forms may cause less excess iron in your system. Dandelion greens are an excellent source of iron that also may be supportive for your kidneys.
Germanium Germanium aids in oxygen utilization and helps support your immune system. If your germanium levels are low, consider T cell and B cell support capsules for immune support.
Rubidium Low levels of rubidium are a sign of low potassium. Low rubidium can cause aggression. Consider potassium support if your rubidium is low. Potassium Citrate can be used, along with food sources of potassium. If your pH is low on a CSA test and GI Test, then use Potassium Bicarbonate to both support potassium and help balance pH. If Krebs intermediates are low on an OBP Test or OCP Test, and you do not have problems with glutamate GABA imbalances, then consider Potassium Krebs Intermediates.
Zirconium High levels of zirconium may cause lung irritation, so consider low dose Respiratory Support nucleotide blend. Low zirconium may suggest a need for more liver support. Consider Liver Support nucleotide blend. The liver may be a source of zirconium, so consider Ora-Liv and MTHFR A1298C Liver Support capsules.

Related Tests to Run

The Fecal Metals Test (FMT) and the Urine Toxic Metals and Urine Essential Elements Test (UTM/UEE) can be run along with the HMT to get a more complete picture of toxic and essential minerals in your body. To save on costs, you can consider rotating the HMT with the FMT and the UTM/UEE so that one of these tests is run every 4 to 8 weeks depending on finances, the degree of your health imbalances, and your need to assess the efficacy of your supplement regime in addressing your health concerns.

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Urine Toxic Metals & Essential Elements Test