It’s hardly news that vitamins and minerals play a vital part in our organisms. Taking plenty of these micronutrients has been linked to an improved immune system, better memory, and many other health benefits. On the other hand, mineral deficiencies can result in memory loss, fatigue, and muscle cramps. Studies suggest that certain mineral deficiencies can cause hair loss.
So, what is the link between mineral deficiencies and hair loss?
Zinc and Alopecia Areata
One of the most important minerals for hair health is zinc. For example, one study by the Ain Shams University in Egypt found that patients with alopecia areata had significantly lower levels of serum zinc than the control group.
The role of zinc in hair production is hardly news to medical professionals, as this mineral is known to be used by our hair follicles during the hair growth cycle, especially in the anagen phase. However, low zinc levels rarely cause alopecia areata immediately. They can more often trigger telogen effluvium – a hair loss condition caused by diet imbalances.
Selenium and Hair Loss
Another mineral that is often implied as beneficial for hair health is selenium. In fact, a Chinese study found that both zinc and selenium play an important part in alopecia areata. The scientists from the Yuhuangding Hospital in China analyzed the data from 10 previous studies that explored the link between mineral deficiencies and hair loss.
The study found that levels of selenium and zinc were significantly lower in people with this hair loss condition.
Final Word
The connection between mineral deficiencies and hair loss mainly depends on zinc and selenium. These two minerals are very important for our hair health, so make sure you get enough of them from your nutrition.
