Zinc is undoubtedly one of the main nutrients necessary for healthy hair development and growth, along with other numerous health benefits. It is responsible for cell reproduction and various tissue regeneration. Zinc is an essential element for keeping a proper hormonal balance and for effective absorption of all nutrients and vitamins we consume. It is very important for sufficient protein production and collagen formation. Zinc is also a valuable natural element for maintaining a good secretion of oil producing glands, as well as for effective dandruff protection.

However, there’s a certain controversy about this mineral. Some scientific theories suggest that excessive levels of zinc in the body can have negative effects by boosting male hormone testosterone production. This will lead to increased DHT levels causing hair thinning and loss. Other studies have shown that DHT production in our body is limited, however hormonal imbalances can be quite unpredictable sometimes.  In addition, too high levels of zinc in the body are often linked to shortages of other essential minerals like magnesium or iron. Therefore it is recommended to beware of having too high levels of this mineral in the body in order to avoid negative consequences of this.

Unfortunately, many modern people suffer from a substantial zinc deficiency. That is why some hair loss specialists name zinc deficiency as one of the main reasons for hair thinning and loss. As a response to this problem, a great number of various hair loss treatments involving zinc were created. Those include mostly various oral supplements for hair loss and special medications containing zinc sulfate, zinc aspartate, zinc acetate, zinc picolinate, zinc gluconate and other zinc compounds. Researchers claim that taking such supplements and medications can not only satisfy our needs in zinc and improve our hair quality, but also have other numerous benefits (like inducing sleep and so on).

If you are a fan of natural lifestyle and healthy eating, you may want to receive more zinc with your daily diet from natural sources. In this case, try consuming more of such foods like pumpkin seeds, eggs, chicken and red meat, liver, yeast, shrimps and oysters, soy products, whet germ and soy products.  However, remember that both conditions of too little and excessive zinc consumption can cause negative effects, and hair loss is among them. According to the FDA recommendations, daily dose of zinc should not exceed 11 mg, however it can be a good choice to consult a health care specialist to determine your personal dose of this mineral, taking into account the specifics of your particular health condition and lifestyle.