Zinc for Hair Loss: Exploring the Potential Benefits
As an essential mineral, the body needs Zinc to accomplish vital processes.
It plays a vital role in the smooth functioning of major organs like the brain and liver.
A study by Karger publishers revealed that 60 percent of patients who received zinc therapy for three months resulted in complete hair regrowth.
Moreover, it is essential for RNA and DNA production, proper immune system function, wound healing, and keeping your blood pressure at a normal rate.
It is also an essential nutrient for hair loss.
If you are facing hair loss, then it might be due to severe zinc deficiency.
Continue reading to learn more about the potential benefits of Zinc for hair loss.
Can Zinc help hair growth?
In simple words, it’s a “yes.”
However, due to low zinc levels, research has shown that people face various hair loss conditions, like Telogen effluvium, Alopecia areata, or sequential baldness.
Even if you don’t have a severe zinc deficiency or an acute hair loss condition over a long period, it may adversely affect hair growth.
Research has revealed that a lack of Zinc can cause hair thinning.
Zinc and protein synthesis
Zinc plays a crucial role in protein synthesis.
It is a process by which amino acids are combined to form proteins.
Since proteins are the building blocks of hair, zinc is essential for healthy hair growth.
Zinc helps to regulate hormone levels, promote a healthy immune system, and prevent hair loss.
Therefore, a balanced diet rich in zinc and protein is necessary to maintain healthy hair growth.
Zinc and DNA synthesis
Zinc is also essential for DNA synthesis.
It is involved in the production of new hair cells.
Zinc plays a critical role in cell division, growth, and repair, all necessary for healthy hair growth.
Deficiency of Zinc can lead to hair thinning, hair loss, and other hair-related problems.
Therefore, a balanced diet rich in zinc is crucial for healthy hair growth.
Zinc and hormone regulation
Zinc regulates hormone levels, which are essential for healthy hair growth.
Testosterone and Estrogen hormones play a critical role in hair growth.
Any form of hormonal imbalance can lead to hair loss.
Zinc helps to regulate hormone levels by inhibiting the conversion of Testosterone to Dihydrotestosterone, which is associated with hair loss.
Therefore, a balanced diet rich in zinc is necessary to maintain healthy hormone levels and promote healthy hair growth.
Natural sources of Zinc
As our body can not prepare its Zinc, it is crucial to ensure we get a bit from an active balanced diet.
We get the right amount of Zinc from our diet, says Dr. Ben Lynch, a naturopathic doctor and founder of Seeking Health.
Some vegan sources include pumpkin seeds, wheat germ, leafy greens, chickpeas, and cashews.
Our body faces a harder time absorbing Zinc from plant sources.
So experts recommend vegetarians and vegans enhance their food intake by up to 50%.
Supplementing with Zinc for hair wellness
How much Zinc is for hair growth will depend on whether or not you’re deficient in this mineral.
A blood test can help you determine this.
Your healthcare provider will then suggest you the right supplements with adequate dosage.
The recommended amounts of Zinc are 8mg for females and 11mg for males daily, subject to change with age.
Health experts recommend not to supplement more than 40 mg a day.
Final thoughts
Zinc is a vital mineral for maintaining healthy hair.
It also helps slow down hair loss and promote hair growth.
Zinc helps maintain the structure of hair follicles and has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce scalp inflammation.
It is recommended to ensure adequate zinc intake through diet or supplements.
However, consulting with a healthcare professional and addressing underlying medical conditions are essential for effective hair loss treatment.
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