What nutrient deficiency causes excessive hair loss?

A diet deficient in protein, fat, calcium, zinc, iron, and vitamins A, B, C, and E is the main cause of weak and excessive hair loss.

There are many causes of hair loss. For example, physiological hair loss occurs when the body replaces weak hair follicles with new, stronger hair cells, while pathological hair loss is caused by conditions such as baldness, fungal infections of the hair and scalp, etc. In addition, one of the causes of this condition is a deficiency in micronutrients.

Dr. Tran Thi Tra Phuong from the Nutrihome Nutrition Clinic system stated that vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in providing nutrients to cells in the body, including hair cells. Hair cells are affected when the body lacks nutrients, manifesting as breakage and hair loss.

Nutritional deficiencies

Adults who lose weight, and children who experience slow weight gain and malnutrition due to diets that don't provide enough nutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrates - which are the main building blocks and essential for cell function) can all experience hair loss.

In particular, a deficiency in protein, the keratin component that makes up hair, is a major cause of hair problems. Protein also helps produce collagen, which gives hair its natural shine and strength. Therefore, a lack of protein in the body will cause hair to become dry, frizzy, weak, and prone to breakage and hair loss.

Hair loss can occur due to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body. (Image: Freepik) — Hair loss can occur due to a deficiency of vitamins and minerals in the body. (Image: *Freepik)*

Deficiency of certain minerals

Calcium is a mineral that is not only essential for strong bones and development, but also for healthy hair and reducing breakage. According to Doctor Tra Phuong, children with rickets and postpartum women often have a calcium deficiency, which frequently leads to hair loss. This is especially true in children, sometimes referred to as "ringworm-like" hair loss.

Zinc is an essential trace element for the body. Everyone can obtain zinc through their daily diet. Hair loss is a common sign of zinc deficiency.

Iron is a mineral that helps produce red blood cells, promoting the smooth transport of nutrients to the hair. Iron deficiency leads to anemia, impaired zinc transport, and consequently, insufficient nutrient supply to the hair.

A deficiency of certain vitamins.

According to Doctor Tra Phuong, vitamin A helps maintain healthy vision, boosts the immune system, and promotes cell differentiation. Vitamin A is essential for the rapid growth and development of hair cells. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to hair loss, dry eyes, and reduced vision.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant found abundantly in green vegetables and ripe fruits. It helps prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins and eliminates free radicals that damage cells, thereby boosting the body's immune system. Furthermore, vitamin C plays a crucial role in iron absorption and reduces iron mobilization in the intestines. Therefore, it is an essential nutrient for individuals experiencing hair loss related to iron-deficiency anemia.

Vitamin E helps hair and skin retain their natural moisture. A deficiency in vitamin E, often linked to hormonal imbalances, can lead to dry hair and skin, as well as brittle and easily broken hair.

Vitamin B is one of the vitamins involved in the formation of hair follicles, helping to strengthen hair and ensuring continuous and efficient metabolic processes within the follicles. Therefore, a deficiency in vitamin B weakens hair follicles, leading to hair loss.

Kim Thu

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