Red Blood Cells and Whole Blood toxic metal levels are good indicators of body pools of essential elements and toxic elements.
What are nutrient elements? Often referred to as minerals, nutrient elements are fundamental to every function in the body. They help build bone and aid in the function of nerve impulses and enzymes. Since the body cannot manufacture the elements, and daily losses are unavoidable, the nutrient elements are “essential” and must be regularly taken in through diet or supplements.
Magnesium is a very common deficiency, occurring in almost 80% of the population to varying degrees, secondary to inadequate mineral intake, malnutrition, alcoholism, malabsorption disorders, and autoimmune disorders such as Celiac disease or Crohn’s disease.
Selenium deficiency can directly influence an individual’s antioxidant protection.
Zinc deficiency can be related to a variety of disorders including sexual impotence, retarded growth, hair loss, and immune system depression.
What are toxic metals? Some elements can accumulate in tissues causing toxic effects. Heavy metal toxicity is a significant environmental health concern, and fairly common. A toxic load of lead, cadmium, mercury, or arsenic is capable of rendering significant damage to the brain and nervous system, particularly in children. Whole blood testing generally reflects increased or recent exposure to toxic elements.
Nutrient elements tested are calcium, copper, magnesium, potassium, selenium, vanadium, and zinc. Toxic metals tested are aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury.
Symptoms and conditions relating to element levels in blood are the following: acne, alcoholism, anemia, asthma, cancer risk, Celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, depression, Down’s syndrome, fatigue, high blood pressure, hyperactivity, low blood sugar, muscle pains/tremors/weakness, and osteoporosis.
Because of the body’s natural rapid depletion of all elements, erythrocyte analysis should be standard protocol before and throughout chelation therapy. Nutrient element analysis is critical for identifying both the need for and monitoring the adequacy of either oral or IV supplementation.
To schedule a consultation to see if Element and Toxic Metal Testing can benefit you, call our office at 813-985-5190 for an appointment.
Kelly Miller DC NMD FASA FBAARM