Zinc is a type of metal that your body requires for optimal health and growth. Inadequate amounts of zinc in your diet can lead to numerous symptoms, including hair loss. Serious zinc deficiencies are uncommon in industrialized countries, although mild deficiencies often occur in individuals with dietary restrictions or malabsorption problems, and can result in hair loss and the appearance of certain skin conditions.
Zinc
Zinc is a trace mineral, meaning you only require small amounts of this nutrient. The recommended daily allowance for adults is between 8 and 11 mg per day. The antioxidant properties of zinc help protect your cells against aging by neutralizing free radicals. Consuming a balanced diet usually provides an adequate amount of this mineral, although people over the age of 75 or individuals with celiac disease, anorexia or alcoholism may require a multiple vitamin and mineral supplement to guard against deficiencies. Natural sources of zinc include oysters, red meats, poultry, fish, mushrooms, green beans, sunflower seeds, whole grains, legumes and tofu. While taking zinc supplements may help resolve a deficiency responsible for hair loss, this trace mineral is not likely to resolve hair loss due to other conditions. Consult with your physician before beginning supplementation of any substance.
Deficiency
Zinc deficiency can cause a type of general hair loss, rather than patchy or patterned hair loss. In addition to possible hair loss, a mild zinc deficiency may cause weight loss; white spots on the fingernails; and skin problems, such as psoriasis, poor wound healing and acne. Serious deficiencies can result in poor growth.
Considerations
Although a zinc deficiency can result in hair loss, there is no evidence that taking zinc supplements will improve the overall health of your hair. Other conditions, such as severe emotional stress, diets low in protein, high fever and childbirth can also lead to hair loss. Some medications, such as birth control pills, certain antidepressants, calcium channel blockers and ibuprofen, may be the reason for unexplained hair loss.
Precautions
Zinc supplementation is not a standard remedy for unhealthy hair and excessive amounts of this nutrient may cause fatigue, stomach pain and fever. Zinc supplementation may decrease the absorption of copper, resulting in anemia. Zinc supplements may interact with certain medications, such as some antibiotics and cancer drugs. Talk to your doctor about taking zinc supplements, especially if you experience unexplained hair loss and other symptoms of a deficiency.
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