Equine HMA

There are two types of minerals, macrominerals and microminerals. Microminerals are also called trace minerals. A brief description is provided below regarding the function of each mineral.

MICROMINERALS

Iron (Fe) is important as a part of blood haemoglobin.

Zinc (Zn) is important in bone development, healthy hooves and coat, and reproduction.

Manganese (Mn) is important in cartilage and bone development and mineral utilization.

Copper (Cu) is important in bone and cartilage development and iron utilization.

Iodine (I) is important in the production of the hormone thyroxine.

Cobalt (Co) is important for the synthesis of Vitamin B12

Selenium (Se) is important to reproduction, growth, and the immune system.

MACROMINERALS

Calcium (Ca) is important in bone development and maintenance.

Phosphorus (P) is also important in bone formation and maintenance.

Magnesium (Mg) is important in skeletal development, muscles, and nervous tissue.

Potassium (K) is important in maintaining adequate cellular pH.

Sodium (Na) has a similar function as potassium but more important for horses that work hard or sweat a lot.

Equine Hair Mineral Analysis (sometimes called Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) is a scientific laboratory test which is considered a standard health test (used worldwide) for the biological monitoring of trace elements (minerals) and toxic metals in humans and animals.

Vital information about the horse's body chemistry is locked into every strand of hair reflecting their energy, diet, environment and well being. Equine HMA tells you if your horse has all the minerals they need and in the right quantities. It also indicates any toxic metals which may be harming your horse and affecting their performance, allowing for a better understanding of what may be causing unsolved health problems

Your horse’s hair mineral analysis will be conducted by Dr David L Watts and his team at the Trace Elements Inc. laboratories. Dr Watts is a leading authority on trace elements research in the US.

Minerals are vital for life and, unlike some vitamins, they are not produced naturally in the body. Your horse needs the right amount (and ratio) of the required minerals to perform at their very best.