What is the difference between testing blood, hair, and urine for minerals?
Blood is the specimen most frequently used to assess nutrient status (with some exceptions) and current toxic metal exposures. Hair specimens can be useful in routine screening for toxic metal exposure, however may not be as helpful in determining essential nutrient status. Urine levels can vary with recent dietary intake. Enhanced sensitivity may be obtained by measuring 6-8, or 24-hour excretion following oral or IV challenge with a chelating agent that mobilizes the elements and metals from body tissues. Comparing results from multiple types of specimens is the best way to provide a more complete picture of elemental status.
