Sometimes, losing your hair can be more than just a sign of aging. Zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, and sometimes open sores as well. A simple blood test can’t show whether there is enough zinc in your body, so your doctors will do a more thorough blood test, and also use a hair sample to measure your zinc content.
Why Is Zinc Important?
The human body needs a number of minerals to function well, and it can only get them through the food and water we consume. Zinc is crucial to your health, as it helps make new cells and takes part in synthesizing your DNA. Without the regenerative abilities of zinc, your wounds don’t heal up the way they are supposed to.
Even moderate zinc deficiency can cause hair loss, since our hair needs the regenerative abilities that this mineral provides. Zinc feeds and repairs hair tissue. It also has an impact on your follicles. If your body is low in zinc, the glands around the follicles stop producing oil.
A few more symptoms you might experience if you have low zinc levels:
- A decreased sense of taste and smell
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
Although it is unpleasant in itself, zinc deficiency can get particularly dangerous if you get wounded or if you’re preparing for surgery.
Pregnant women need to turn to a professional as soon as they suspect there’s a problem because a lack of zinc can damage the baby. Low zinc levels can make conceiving a child difficult as well.
What Can You Do If You’re Low on Zinc?
When there isn’t enough zinc in your body, your doctors will recommend supplements or a diet change.
Oysters are the very best choice if you want to decrease your zinc intake. Red meat, lobster, and beans are a good source for this mineral as well.
Conclusion
Zinc is necessary for renewing your cells. A deficiency in this mineral will stop your hair tissue from growing and repairing itself. It isn’t too difficult to treat this issue, once you have discovered it.
