Hair loss treatment: Increasing your iron and zinc could help to increase hair growth
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Hair loss is a common problem which may be improved with certain vitamins. Vitamins and minerals are integral for normal cell growth and function and may contribute to hair loss when they are deficient. According to studies, having an iron or zinc deficiency could cause hair loss and by increasing these essential micronutrients, you could increase your hair growth.
When a person doesn’t have enough iron, their body can’t produce the haemoglobin in their blood.
Haemoglobin carries oxygen for the growth and repair of cells in your body, including the cells that stimulate hair growth.
With treatment, you can help reverse both the iron deficiency and the hair loss.
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In a study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, iron and zinc deficiencies and its association with hair loss was investigated.
The study noted: “Iron deficiency (ID) is the world’s most common nutritional deficiency and is a well-known cause of hair loss.
“What remains unclear is what degree of ID may contribute to hair loss.
“While the mechanism of action by which iron impacts hair growth is not known, hair follicle matrix cells are some of the most rapidly dividing cells in the body, and ID may contribute to hair loss via its role as a cofactor for ribonucleotide reductase, the rate-limiting enzyme for DNA synthesis.
“In addition, multiple genes have been identified in the human hair follicle, and some may be regulated by iron.
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“Zinc is an essential mineral required by hundreds of enzymes and multiple transcription factors that regulate gene expression.
“While the exact mechanism of action is unclear, one possibility centres on zinc’s role as an essential component of numerous metalloenzymes important in protein synthesis and cell division.
“Another possibility is zinc’s role in the Hedgehog signalling pathway, a critical component in the pathways that govern hair follicle morphogenesis.
“Screening in those with risk factors is indicated, as hair loss due to zinc deficiency can be reversed.”
Dr Lucy Glancey said: “Zinc plays an important role in hair tissue growth and repair.
“It also helps keep the oil glands around the follicles working properly.
“Hair loss is a common symptom of zinc deficiency therefore zinc supplements can help with hair thinning and hair loss.”
Iron and zinc are essential micronutrients for human health.
Deficiencies in these two nutrients remain a global problem, especially among women and children in developing countries.
Supplementation with iron and zinc as single micronutrients enhances distinct and unique biochemical and functional outcomes.
Eating a diet rich in meat, shellfish, seeds, nuts, dairy, eggs and whole grain is a healthy way to ensure you are getting enough iron and zinc to increase hair growth.
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