Ordering the Heavy Metals Hair Test | Great Plains Labs
The Heavy Metals Hair Test from Great Plains Labs helps detect long-term exposure to metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic by analyzing a small hair sample. This test is often used to check for hidden sources of metal buildup that may not show up in blood or urine, especially when symptoms are ongoing or unexplained. Interestingly, hair analysis can reveal past exposure to metals that occurred months ago, making it useful for tracking exposure over time.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Identify hidden sources of metal buildup that may be affecting your body.
- Track exposure to metals over several months, not just recent contact.
- Monitor the effectiveness of detox or chelation programs.
- Detect imbalances in essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
- Support your healthcare provider in making informed decisions about your care.
Who Should Consider Heavy Metal and Mineral Analysis
People who have ongoing symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or mood changes that have not improved with other treatments may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has tried different approaches for persistent tiredness and muscle aches, but still has no clear answers, might find that checking for hidden metal exposure provides new information.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Experiencing unexplained hair loss or skin rashes that do not respond to typical treatments.
- Living in an older home with possible lead pipes or paint.
- Working in industries with higher risk of metal exposure, such as construction or manufacturing.
- Having a history of using imported herbal remedies or supplements that may contain heavy metals.
- Noticing changes in memory or mood after moving to a new area with different water sources.
Testing for metals and minerals can help pinpoint the cause of symptoms like joint pain, digestive issues, or memory problems by showing if metals are building up in your body. Delaying this test could mean missing the chance to address metal exposure before it leads to more serious problems, so ordering at the right time is a practical step.
Preparing for Hair Mineral and Metal Testing
Fasting is not required for this test, but it is important to avoid using hair dyes, bleaches, or chemical treatments for at least two weeks before collecting your sample. Always follow any instructions your healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected and handled correctly.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Heavy Metals Hair Test | Great Plains Labs
| Test Name |
Reference Range |
What This Test Measures |
Low and High Levels |
| Calcium |
200-1200 |
Calcium is important for bones, teeth, and nerve function. This test shows how much calcium is stored in your body over time. |
High levels mean too much calcium is being stored, which can affect nerves and muscles.
Low levels mean your body may not be getting or keeping enough calcium for strong bones and teeth. |
| Magnesium |
20-120 |
Magnesium helps with muscle movement and energy. This test checks if your body has enough magnesium stored. |
High levels mean your body may not be using magnesium well.
Low levels mean you might have muscle cramps or feel tired. |
| Sodium |
80-240 |
Sodium helps control fluid balance and nerve signals. This test shows long-term sodium levels in your body. |
High levels mean your body may be holding onto too much salt.
Low levels mean you could feel weak or dizzy. |
| Potassium |
10-60 |
Potassium is needed for heart and muscle function. This test checks if your body is keeping the right amount of potassium. |
High levels mean your kidneys may not be working well.
Low levels mean you might have muscle weakness or cramps. |
| Copper |
8-30 |
Copper helps make red blood cells and supports the immune system. This test shows if copper is balanced in your body. |
High levels mean you may have trouble with mood or digestion.
Low levels mean you could feel tired or get sick more easily. |
| Zinc |
120-250 |
Zinc is needed for growth, healing, and immune support. This test checks if your body has enough zinc stored. |
High levels mean you may have trouble with copper balance.
Low levels mean you might get sick more often or heal slowly. |
| Manganese |
0.04-0.20 |
Manganese helps with bone growth and metabolism. This test shows if your body is getting enough manganese. |
High levels mean you may have nerve or movement problems.
Low levels mean your bones and metabolism may not work as well. |
| Chromium |
0.04-0.20 |
Chromium helps control blood sugar. This test checks if your body has enough chromium for healthy sugar levels. |
High levels mean your body may not be using sugar well.
Low levels mean you could have trouble keeping blood sugar steady. |
| Vanadium |
0.01-0.05 |
Vanadium supports bone and tooth strength. This test shows if your body is exposed to or storing vanadium. |
High levels mean possible exposure to vanadium from the environment.
Low levels mean your body may not be getting enough for bone support. |
| Molybdenum |
0.01-0.05 |
Molybdenum helps break down certain amino acids. This test checks if your body has enough for these processes. |
High levels mean your body may be exposed to too much from food or water.
Low levels mean your body may not process some nutrients well. |
| Boron |
0.5-3.0 |
Boron supports bone health and hormone balance. This test shows if your body is getting enough boron. |
High levels mean possible overexposure from supplements.
Low levels mean your bones may not be as strong. |
| Iodine |
0.25-1.5 |
Iodine is needed for thyroid function. This test checks if your body has enough iodine for hormone production. |
High levels mean your thyroid may be overactive.
Low levels mean you could have thyroid problems or feel tired. |
| Lithium |
0.002-0.020 |
Lithium helps with mood balance. This test shows if your body is exposed to or storing lithium. |
High levels mean possible overexposure from water or medication.
Low levels mean your body may not have enough for mood support. |
| Phosphorus |
80-180 |
Phosphorus is needed for bones and energy. This test checks if your body is storing enough phosphorus. |
High levels mean your kidneys may not be working well.
Low levels mean your bones and muscles may be weak. |
| Selenium |
0.8-2.0 |
Selenium helps protect cells and supports the immune system. This test shows if your body has enough selenium. |
High levels mean possible overexposure from supplements.
Low levels mean you may get sick more easily. |
| Strontium |
0.5-3.0 |
Strontium supports bone strength. This test checks if your body is exposed to or storing strontium. |
High levels mean possible environmental exposure.
Low levels mean your bones may not be as strong. |
| Sulfur |
200-400 |
Sulfur helps build proteins and supports detox. This test shows if your body has enough sulfur for these processes. |
High levels mean your body may be exposed to too much from food or environment.
Low levels mean your body may not detox well. |
| Cobalt |
0.003-0.020 |
Cobalt is part of vitamin B12. This test checks if your body is getting enough cobalt for red blood cell production. |
High levels mean possible overexposure from supplements.
Low levels mean you may have trouble making red blood cells. |
| Iron |
8-30 |
Iron is needed for red blood cells and energy. This test shows if your body is storing enough iron. |
High levels mean your body may store too much iron, which can damage organs.
Low levels mean you may feel tired or weak. |
| Germanium |
0.001-0.010 |
Germanium is a trace element. This test checks if your body is exposed to or storing germanium. |
High levels mean possible overexposure from supplements.
Low levels mean your body may not have enough for cell support. |
| Rubidium |
0.01-0.10 |
Rubidium is a trace mineral. This test shows if your body is exposed to or storing rubidium. |
High levels mean possible environmental exposure.
Low levels mean your body may not have enough for cell function. |
| Zirconium |
0.01-0.10 |
Zirconium is a trace element. This test checks if your body is exposed to or storing zirconium. |
High levels mean possible environmental exposure.
Low levels mean your body may not have enough for cell support. |
| Test Name |
Reference Range |
What This Test Measures |
Low and High Levels |
| Calcium/Magnesium |
3-9 |
This ratio helps show if your body is keeping the right balance between calcium and magnesium, which is important for nerves and muscles. |
High levels mean too much calcium compared to magnesium.
Low levels mean too much magnesium compared to calcium. |
| Sodium/Potassium |
1.5-4.0 |
This ratio shows if your body is balancing sodium and potassium, which affects blood pressure and fluid balance. |
High levels mean more sodium than potassium.
Low levels mean more potassium than sodium. |
| Zinc/Copper |
8-12 |
This ratio helps show if your body is keeping the right balance between zinc and copper, which is important for immune and nerve function. |
High levels mean more zinc than copper.
Low levels mean more copper than zinc. |
| Zinc/Cadmium |
>100 |
This ratio shows if your body is exposed to cadmium, a toxic metal, compared to zinc, an essential mineral. |
High levels mean more zinc compared to cadmium.
Low levels mean more cadmium compared to zinc. |
| Calcium/Phosphorus |
1.5-2.5 |
This ratio helps show if your body is keeping the right balance between calcium and phosphorus for bone health. |
High levels mean more calcium than phosphorus.
Low levels mean more phosphorus than calcium. |
| Test Name |
Reference Range |
What This Test Measures |
Low and High Levels |
| Aluminum |
<7 |
Aluminum is a toxic metal that can build up from cookware, water, or the environment. This test shows if your body is storing too much aluminum. |
High levels mean possible exposure to aluminum, which can affect nerves and memory.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much aluminum. |
| Antimony |
<0.03 |
Antimony is a toxic metal found in some batteries and flame retardants. This test checks for antimony buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to antimony, which can affect the lungs and heart.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much antimony. |
| Arsenic |
<0.10 |
Arsenic is a toxic metal found in water, rice, and seafood. This test shows if your body is storing arsenic over time. |
High levels mean possible exposure to arsenic, which can cause skin, nerve, or digestive problems.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much arsenic. |
| Barium |
<0.10 |
Barium is a toxic metal found in some industrial products. This test checks for barium buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to barium, which can affect muscles and the heart.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much barium. |
| Beryllium |
<0.01 |
Beryllium is a toxic metal used in electronics. This test checks for beryllium exposure and storage in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to beryllium, which can affect the lungs.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much beryllium. |
| Bismuth |
<0.10 |
Bismuth is a metal found in some medicines and cosmetics. This test checks for bismuth buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to bismuth, which can affect the kidneys and nerves.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much bismuth. |
| Cadmium |
<0.10 |
Cadmium is a toxic metal found in batteries and some foods. This test shows if your body is storing cadmium. |
High levels mean possible exposure to cadmium, which can affect the kidneys and bones.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much cadmium. |
| Lead |
<1.0 |
Lead is a toxic metal found in old paint, pipes, and some imported goods. This test checks for lead buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to lead, which can affect memory, mood, and growth.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much lead. |
| Mercury |
<1.0 |
Mercury is a toxic metal found in some fish, dental fillings, and the environment. This test shows if your body is storing mercury. |
High levels mean possible exposure to mercury, which can affect nerves and memory.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much mercury. |
| Platinum |
<0.01 |
Platinum is a metal used in jewelry and medical devices. This test checks for platinum exposure and storage in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to platinum, which can affect the kidneys.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much platinum. |
| Thallium |
<0.01 |
Thallium is a toxic metal found in some pesticides. This test checks for thallium buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to thallium, which can affect nerves and hair.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much thallium. |
| Thorium |
<0.01 |
Thorium is a radioactive metal found in some industrial settings. This test checks for thorium exposure and storage in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to thorium, which can affect organs.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much thorium. |
| Uranium |
<0.01 |
Uranium is a radioactive metal found in some water sources. This test checks for uranium buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to uranium, which can affect the kidneys.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much uranium. |
| Nickel |
<0.20 |
Nickel is a metal found in coins, jewelry, and some foods. This test checks for nickel buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to nickel, which can cause skin rashes or allergies.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much nickel. |
| Silver |
<0.10 |
Silver is a metal found in jewelry and some medicines. This test checks for silver buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to silver, which can affect the skin.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much silver. |
| Tin |
<0.20 |
Tin is a metal found in cans and some water pipes. This test checks for tin buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to tin, which can affect the stomach and nerves.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much tin. |
| Titanium |
<0.10 |
Titanium is a metal used in implants and some cosmetics. This test checks for titanium buildup in your body. |
High levels mean possible exposure to titanium, which can affect the skin or tissues.
Low levels mean your body is not storing much titanium. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods or as new research becomes available.
Heavy Metals Hair Test | Great Plains Labs FAQ
What are the differences between hair, blood, urine, and stool tests for heavy metal detection?
Hair Testing
- Measures heavy metals accumulated in hair over weeks or months.
- Best suited for detecting long-term exposure, such as past months’ exposures.
- Not effective for recent exposure due to the slow growth rate of hair.
Blood Testing
- Identifies heavy metals currently circulating in the bloodstream.
- Most effective for recent or short-term exposure, such as within a few days or weeks.
- Metal levels decrease quickly as they are absorbed into tissues.
- Assesses heavy metals being excreted by the body.
- Useful for detecting ongoing exposure or monitoring the body’s detoxification process.
- Can also reveal levels after using agents that release metals from tissues (provocation testing).
- Shows heavy metals eliminated through the digestive tract.
- Helpful for analyzing how the body excretes metals through the gastrointestinal system, though it may not reflect total body burden.
- Results can vary based on factors like diet, digestion, and the body’s ability to process metals.
- Less standardized than blood and urine tests, making interpretation more complex.
Is there Heavy Metals Hair Test | Great Plains Labs testing near me?
This is a test kit you can use at home, so you can collect your hair sample locally and send it to the lab; check the draw location link at the top of the page. If you have ongoing symptoms like fatigue or headaches, being able to collect your sample easily at home means you can get answers without extra travel or waiting.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should help you understand your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team for more detailed guidance.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for the test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you find out if metal exposure is causing symptoms like memory loss or joint pain, so you can start feeling better sooner.
How often should I retest?
Retesting every 6 to 12 months is recommended, especially if you are monitoring changes after reducing exposure or starting a detox program. Regular testing helps track progress and ensures that any changes in metal or mineral levels are caught early.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), which is highly specific and sensitive for detecting metals in hair samples, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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