The role of iron in hair growth: how to fill the deficit

The role of iron in hair growth: how to fill the deficit

I. Iron: fundamental trace element for life and health

Iron, a chemical element with a symbol of Fe and atomic number 26, is a vital trace element that plays a critical role in many biochemical processes of the body. Its value goes far beyond the simple component, covering oxygen transport, energy metabolism, DNA synthesis and immune function.

A. Oxygen transport: hemoglobin and myoglobin

The main function of iron is to participate in oxygen transport. This is achieved due to its presence in hemoglobin, protein contained in red blood cells (red blood cells). Hemoglobin binds oxygen in the lungs and delivers it to all tissues and organs of the body. Without enough iron, the synthesis of hemoglobin is disturbed, which leads to a decrease in oxygen supply, known as iron deficiency anemia.

In addition to hemoglobin, iron is part of myoglobin, protein in muscle cells. Mioglobin storages oxygen in the muscles, providing them with energy during physical activity. Iron deficiency can lead to muscle weakness and fatigue due to a lack of oxygen in muscle tissue.

B. Energy metabolism: key component of enzymes

Iron is an important component of many enzymes involved in energy metabolism. These enzymes, known as iron -containing enzymes, catalyze the reactions necessary to convert food into energy that the body uses to maintain life and activity. With iron deficiency, the activity of these enzymes decreases, which leads to a decrease in the energy level, fatigue and weakness.

In particular, iron is involved in the work of cytochromes, enzymes that play a key role in the electron transfer chain in mitochondria – cell energy stations. This chain is the main mechanism for the production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate), molecules, which serves as the main source of energy for cellular processes.

C. DNA synthesis: the necessary element for cell division

Iron is necessary for the synthesis of DNA, genetic material containing instructions for the growth, development and functioning of cells. Iron -containing enzymes are involved in the process of DNA replication, copying genetic material before cell division. Iron deficiency can disrupt this process, leading to a slowdown in cell growth and development, which is especially important for fast -growing tissues, such as hair.

D. Immune function: Support for the immune system

Iron plays an important role in maintaining a healthy immune system. It is necessary for the production and functioning of immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages that protect the body from infections and diseases. Iron deficiency can weaken the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections.

Iron is involved in the formation of enzymes that are necessary for the destruction of bacteria and viruses. In addition, it contributes to the ripening of immune cells and enhances their ability to respond to pathogens.

II. Iron and hair growth: inextricable connection

Hair, like any other fast -growing tissues, require the constant intake of nutrients, including iron. Iron plays a key role in maintaining hair health, providing their growth, strength and shine. Iron deficiency can adversely affect the condition of the hair, leading to loss, thinning and brittleness.

A. Iron and hair follicle: power and growth

Hair follicle is a structure in the skin from which the hair grows. The cells of the hair follicle are actively divided and need a large amount of energy and nutrients, including iron, to maintain hair growth. Iron provides hair follicle with oxygen and the necessary enzymes for the synthesis of keratin, the main protein from which the hair consists of.

Iron deficiency can lead to a decrease in the activity of the cells of the hair follicle, which slows down hair growth and leads to their thinning. In severe cases, iron deficiency can lead to the cessation of hair growth and their loss.

B. iron and phases of hair growth: influence on the cycle

Hair growth occurs cyclically, passing through the three main phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase) and bodyogen (rest phase). Iron plays an important role in each of these phases, maintaining a normal hair growth cycle.

• Anaagen: The phase of active hair growth, which lasts from 2 to 7 years. Iron is necessary to maintain a high rate of cell division in a hair follicle, providing the growth of long and healthy hair.
• Catagen: A short transition phase, which lasts about 2-3 weeks. In this phase, hair growth stops, and the hair follicle is reduced. Iron helps to regulate this process.
• Telogen: The dormant phase, which lasts about 3 months. In this phase, the hair remains in the hair follicle, but does not grow. Iron is necessary to prepare a hair follicle for a new growth phase (anagen).

Iron deficiency can reduce the anagen phase, which leads to hair loss and their slow growth. It can also increase the amount of hair located in the heterogene phase, which leads to diffuse hair loss (heterogene loss).

C. Types of hair loss associated with iron deficiency

Iron deficiency can be the cause of various types of hair loss, including:

• Telogene loss (Telogen effluvium): The most common type of hair loss associated with iron deficiency. It is characterized by diffuse hair loss throughout the head, especially noticeable when washing or combing hair.
• Androgenetic alopecia (Androgenetic alopecia): Genetically determined hair loss, which can aggravate iron deficiency. In men, it manifests itself in the form of baldness in the forehead and crown, in women – in the form of thinning of hair in the central part of the head.
• Diffuse alopecia (Diffuse Alopecia): The general thinning of the hair throughout the head, which can be caused by various factors, including iron deficiency.

D. Studies confirming the connection of iron and hair loss

Numerous studies confirm the relationship between iron deficiency and hair loss.

• Studies show that in women with hebogene hair loss, a low level of ferritin (protein, stocking iron in the body) is often observed.
• Other studies demonstrate that iron supplements can improve hair growth and reduce loss in people with iron deficiency.
• The meta-analyzes of several studies confirm that iron deficiency is a significant risk factor for hair loss, especially in women.

III. Causes of iron deficiency: identification of risk factors

Iron deficiency is a common condition that can be caused by various factors. It is important to know the causes of iron deficiency in order to take measures to prevent and treat it.

A. insufficient consumption of iron with food

The most common cause of iron deficiency is insufficient consumption of iron with food. Iron is found in various foods, but not all forms of iron are equally well absorbed by the body.

• Hem iron: Contained in animal products, such as red meat, poultry and fish. Hemic iron is absorbed by the body much better than non -meter iron.
• Neghemian iron: Contained in plant products, such as legumes, spinach and nuts. The assimilation of the non -meter iron depends on many factors, including the presence of other nutrients in food.

People who do not use enough products rich in hemic iron, or those who adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet are at increased risk of iron deficiency.

B. Violation of iron absorption

Some diseases and conditions can violate the absorption of iron in the intestines, which leads to a deficiency of iron, even with sufficient consumption of iron with food.

• Celiacia: Autoimmune disease in which glutenic use damages the mucous membrane of the small intestine, which leads to a violation of the absorption of nutrients, including iron.
• Inflammatory diseases of the intestine (BCC): Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis can cause inflammation in the intestines, which violates iron absorption.
• Surgical removal of part of the stomach or intestines: It can lead to a decrease in the production of gastric juice and a decrease in the absorption area, which violates the absorption of iron.

C. Blood loss

Loss of blood, even in small quantities, can lead to iron deficiency.

• Menstruation: Women with abundant menstruation may develop iron deficiency due to regular blood loss.
• Bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract: Ulcers of the stomach and duodenum, polyps in the intestines and cancer of the colon can cause bleeding, which lead to iron deficiency.
• Blood donation: Regular blood donation can deplete iron supplies in the body.

D. Pregnancy and lactation

Pregnant and lactating women need more iron to maintain the growth and development of the fetus and child. Inadequate iron consumption during pregnancy and lactation can lead to iron deficiency in both the mother and the child.

E. Other factors

• Some drugs: Some drugs, such as antacids and proton pump inhibitors, can reduce iron absorption.
• Chronic diseases: Chronic diseases, such as renal failure and heart failure, can disrupt iron metabolism and lead to its deficiency.

IV. Symptoms of iron deficiency: signs recognition

Iron deficiency can manifest itself with various symptoms that can be mild or severe, depending on the degree of deficiency. It is important to recognize the symptoms of iron deficiency in order to consult a doctor in a timely manner and begin treatment.

A. General symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness: The most common symptoms of iron deficiency. Associated with insufficient supply of oxygen of tissues and organs.
• Pallor of the skin: Especially noticeable on the face, lips and nails. Associated with a low level of hemoglobin.
• Dyspnea: It occurs with physical activity or even at rest. Associated with insufficient supply of oxygen of the lungs.
• Headaches and dizziness: Associated with insufficient supply of oxygen of the brain.
• Irritability and bad mood: Associated with impaired work of the nervous system due to lack of iron.
• Difficulties with concentration and memory: Associated with insufficient supply of oxygen of the brain.
• Far heartbeat: The heart tries to compensate for the lack of oxygen, pumping blood faster.
• Restless legs syndrome: Unpleasant sensations in the legs that make a person constantly move them.

B. Symptoms specific for hair and skin

• Hair loss: One of the most noticeable symptoms of iron deficiency.
• Thinning of the hair: Hair becomes thin and brittle.
• Fitty nails: The nails become fragile and easily break.
• The pallor of the nail bed: The nail bed becomes pale due to the low level of hemoglobin.
• Koilonichia (spoon -like nails): Nails become concave like spoons.
• Dry skin: The skin becomes dry and flaky.

C. Other symptoms

• Changes in taste (peak): Desire is inedible things, such as clay, chalk or ice.
• Soreness of the language: The language becomes painful and inflamed.
• Difficult swallowing: Associated with inflammation of the esophagus.
• Reduced immunity: Increased susceptibility to infections.

V. Diagnosis of iron deficiency: laboratory research

To diagnose iron deficiency, you must consult a doctor who will conduct an examination and prescribe laboratory tests.

A. General blood test

• Hemoglobin (HB): Measures the amount of hemoglobin in the blood. The low level of hemoglobin is a sign of anemia.
• Hematocrit (ht): It measures the percentage of red blood cells in the blood. Low hematocrit is also a sign of anemia.
• The average volume of red blood cells (MCV): It measures the average size of red blood cells. With iron deficiency, red blood cells usually become less (microcytosis).
• The average hemoglobin content in red blood cells (Mch): It measures the average amount of hemoglobin in red blood cells. With iron deficiency, red blood cells usually contain less hemoglobin (hypochromy).
• Erythrocyte distribution width (RDW): It measures a variety of sizes of red blood cells. With iron deficiency, RDW usually rises.

B. Analysis on Feritin

• Ferritin: It measures the level of ferritin, protein, storing iron in the body. The low level of ferritin is the most sensitive indicator of iron deficiency.

C. Other tests

• Waste iron: Measures the amount of iron in the blood.
• General iron -binding capacity (OHSSS): It measures the ability of blood to bind iron. With a deficiency of iron, OZHSS usually rises.
• Transferin: Protein carrying iron in the blood.

VI. Filling of iron deficiency: integrated approach

Filling in iron deficiency requires an integrated approach, including a change in the diet, taking iron -containing drugs and eliminating the cause of iron deficiency.

A. Diet, rich in iron

An increase in the consumption of products rich in iron is an important step in filling the iron deficiency.

• Hem iron: Red meat (beef, pork, lamb), poultry (chicken, turkey), fish (salmon, tuna, sardines), seafood (oysters, mussels).
• Neghemian iron: Legumes (beans, lentils, peas), spinach, broccoli, tofu, iron enriched with iron and bread, nuts (almonds, caskets, walnuts), seeds (pumpkin, sesame seeds).

B. Improving iron absorption

• Vitamin C: Vitamin C promotes the absorption of non -meter iron. Use products rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries, pepper and tomatoes, along with products containing non -meter iron.
• Avoid iron absorption inhibitors: Some products and drinks can reduce iron absorption. Avoid the use of coffee, tea, calcium and products containing tannins (for example, grapes), along with products rich in iron.

C. iron -containing drugs

In most cases, iron -containing drugs must be taken to make up for iron deficiency.

• Types of iron drugs: There are various types of iron preparations, including iron sulfate, iron fumarat and iron gluconate. Iron sulfate is the cheapest and common type, but it can cause side effects, such as nausea, constipation and diarrhea.
• Dosage: The dosage of the iron -containing drug depends on the degree of iron deficiency and the individual characteristics of the patient. The doctor will determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.
• Take of drugs: Iron -containing drugs should be taken on an empty stomach, an hour before meals or two hours after eating to improve absorption. If taking on an empty stomach causes side effects, you can take the drug during meals.
• Side effects: Iron -containing drugs can cause side effects, such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain and dark chair. To reduce side effects, you can start with a low dose and gradually increase it. You can also take the drug with food.
• Interaction with other drugs: Iron -containing drugs can interact with other drugs such as antacids and antibiotics. Tell your doctor about all the medicines that you take to avoid unwanted interactions.

D. Elimination of the cause of iron deficiency

It is important to identify and eliminate the cause of iron deficiency in order to prevent its repeated occurrence.

• Treatment of bleeding: If iron deficiency is caused by bleeding, it is necessary to detect a source of bleeding and treatment.
• Treatment of diseases that violate iron absorption: If iron deficiency is caused by a disease that violates the absorption of iron, it is necessary to treat this disease.
• Diet change: If iron deficiency is caused by insufficient consumption of iron with food, it is necessary to change the diet and include in it products rich in iron.

VII. Prevention of iron deficiency: self -care

Prevention of iron deficiency is an important part of maintaining the health of hair and the whole body.

A. Balanced nutrition

A balanced diet, rich in iron, is the basis for the prevention of iron deficiency. Eas enough products containing hemic and non -meter iron.

B. Regular medical examinations

Regular medical examinations allow you to identify iron deficiency in the early stages and start treatment in a timely manner.

C. Consultation with a doctor

If you have risk factors for iron deficiency or you experience symptoms of iron deficiency, consult a doctor for examination and consultation.

D. Special recommendations for women

Women, especially with abundant menstruation, pregnant and nursing women, need to pay special attention to the prevention of iron deficiency. Regularly control the level of iron and take iron -containing drugs as prescribed by a doctor.

VIII. Iron and other nutrients: Synergy for hair health

Iron works in synergia with other nutrients to maintain hair health. It is important to ensure sufficient consumption of these nutrients for optimal hair growth and health.

A. White

Protein is the main building material for hair. Eas enough foods rich in protein, such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes and nuts.

B. B vitamins

Group B vitamins, such as biotin, niacin and pantothenic acid, play an important role in hair growth. Use products rich in group B vitamins, such as whole grain products, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes and vegetables.

C. Vitamin D.

Vitamin D plays a role in hair growth and can help reduce hair loss. Get enough sunlight or take vitamin D.

D. Zinc

Zinc is necessary for hair growth and maintaining the health of the scalp. Use foods rich in zinc, such as meat, poultry, fish, nuts and seeds.

E. Omega-3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce scalp inflammation and improve hair growth. Use products rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish, linen seeds and walnuts.

IX. Alternative treatment methods: complementary approaches

In addition to traditional methods of treating iron deficiency, there are alternative treatment methods that can help improve hair growth and health.

A. Herbal additives

Some herbal additives, such as nettles and horsetail, can help improve hair growth. However, before using herbal additives, you need to consult a doctor.

B. Acupuncture

Acupuncture can help improve blood circulation in the scalp and stimulate hair growth.

C. scalp massage

Scalp massage can help improve blood circulation and stimulate hair growth.

D. Essential oils

Some essential oils, such as rosemary and lavender oil, can help improve hair growth. Add a few drops of essential oil to shampoo or air conditioning.

X. Myths and errors about iron and hair loss

There are many myths and misconceptions about iron and hair loss. It is important to know the truth in order to make the right decisions about your health.

A. Myth: iron intake always helps with hair loss

Fact: Iron is helping only if hair loss is caused by iron deficiency. If hair loss is caused by other factors, iron is not helped.

B. Myth: Vegetarians and vegans always experience iron deficiency

Fact: vegetarians and vegans can receive enough iron from plant sources if they correctly plan their diet. It is important to use foods rich in non -meter iron, and improve its absorption using vitamin C.

C. Myth: too much iron is not harmful

Fact: too much iron can be harmful to the body. An excess of iron can lead to damage to organs and tissues. Do not take iron -containing drugs without a doctor’s prescription.

XI. Conclusion

Iron plays a key role in hair growth. Iron deficiency can lead to loss, thinning and brittle hair. It is important to maintain a sufficient level of iron in the body using a balanced diet, taking iron -containing drugs as prescribed by a doctor and eliminating the cause of iron deficiency. If the symptoms of iron deficiency appear, consult a doctor for examination and consultation.

XII. Resources

• American Academy of Dermatology: https://www.aad.org/
• National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.nih.gov/
• The Trichological Society: https://www.trichologicalsociety.org.uk/

XIII. Disclaimer

This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.