It is possible that if you are deficient in certain vitamins and minerals, you might be experiencing hair loss. Many deficiencies can be easily corrected by eating the right foods or taking supplements. Let’s go over certain common deficiencies that have been known to cause hair thinning or loss.
Iron deficiency is very common in women. Iron helps deliver nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles, so if you are not getting enough, your hair won’t get the nutrients it needs. Over time, this can cause hair to thin and fall out. You can take iron supplements but be careful not to take too many or it could cause other side effects. You can also ramp up your intake of iron-rich foods including red meat, beans, and certain vegetables like spinach.
Vitamin D is another common vitamin that is said to cause hair loss if you don’t get enough in your diet. You can get vitamin D from the sun or from certain foods. Foods that are high in vitamin D are salmon, eggs, and fortified cereals.
Being deficient in zinc is very similar to being iron deficient. If you are low in zinc, your hair may become damaged and prone to breakage. Foods that are high in zinc are pumpkin seeds and other seeds and nuts, oysters, beans, and whole grains.
Lastly, selenium deficiency can also cause hair loss. However, this one is not as common as the aforementioned three. If you have a selenium deficiency, it could affect your thyroid, which can cause other issues including hair loss. You may also notice hair loss on other areas of your body including your eyebrows and eyelashes. Foods high in selenium are chicken, beef, whole wheat pasta, mushrooms, and shrimp.
Think of it this way. If you are lacking in certain vitamins or nutrients, your body will use what you have for more important functions like getting blood and oxygen to your heart. Your hair may be the last thing that gets the nutrient, so if there isn’t enough to go around, your hair may become damaged. Of course, you should always talk to your doctor about any new hair thinning or hair loss, especially if you think you might be deficient in certain vitamins.
Have you ever experienced a vitamin deficiency? Did it cause hair loss?
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