Nutrients
Nickel
Ni
Included in Complete.
Compare membershipsChecking everyday exposure to a common metal.
Nickel is a metal found in small amounts in food, water, and air, and in many everyday objects. Your body has no established need for it, so it's measured mainly to check exposure.
Nickel is everywhere, and most exposure is small.
Most people take in small amounts of nickel through foods such as grains, legumes, chocolate, and tea, and through drinking water. Smoking and some jobs, such as nickel refining, welding, and stainless steel or battery manufacturing, can add more.
Scientists haven't shown a clear biological role for nickel in humans, and no recommended intake has been set. A blood result can show whether your exposure looks higher than expected, but it can't predict whether you'll have health effects.
Questions
Does this test check for a nickel allergy?
No. Nickel allergy is a skin reaction to contact with items like jewellery, and a blood nickel level isn't used to check for it. If metal gives you rashes, a clinician can talk with you about appropriate testing.
What does a higher nickel result mean?
It may point to recent exposure from work, smoking, or other sources. Your clinician will ask about your job, habits, and any implants or dental work, and read your result alongside your other markers.