A deficiency of the mineral iron is a common cause of hair loss in women. If you have low iron levels from your diet, you may develop iron deficiency anemia, which can lead to thinning hair and other adverse side effects. To help prevent this, ask your doctor about consuming more iron-rich foods, as well as taking a supplement if necessary. Tell him about your hair loss concerns and any other symptoms you experience.
Function of Iron
The majority of the iron in your body is in your red blood cells, and your body uses this mineral to produce these cells, as well as the blood proteins hemoglobin and myoglobin. These proteins transport oxygen throughout your system, and without an adequate amount of oxygen, your cells cannot function properly. According to the World Health Organization, as much as 80 percent of the world’s population may have an iron deficiency.
Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia occurs when your body does not get enough iron and therefore cannot produce an adequate amount of red blood cells. This in turn causes your cells to become deficient in oxygen. In general, women are at a greater risk for developing this condition, due to the blood loss that occurs during menstruation. Along with hair loss, iron deficiency anemia may occur with symptoms such as pale skin, fatigue, headaches, irritability, cold hands and feet, brittle nails, a poor appetite and weakness.
Prevention
You can reduce your chances of developing iron deficiency anemia and the hair loss that comes with it by making sure you get an adequate amount of this mineral in your diet. Your body absorbs iron more readily from animal sources like organ meats, lean red meat, poultry, salmon and tuna. You can also get iron from plant sources, such as dried beans, dried fruit, whole grains and spinach, as well as cereals that have been fortified with the mineral. Your physician might also recommend that you take a supplement to meet the RDA, which is 18 milligrams for women between 19 and 51, and 27 milligrams for pregnant women.
Additional Considerations
Before you begin consuming more iron, talk to your doctor. High iron levels can be dangerous as well and may result in liver damage and skin discolorations. If you experience sudden or inexplicable hair loss, seek medical attention before you attempt to self-diagnose. Tell your health care provider about all of the symptoms you experience along with hair thinning, if any, and ask what steps can be taken to help correct this. Keep in mind that hair loss can also be a natural part of aging and will therefore not be preventable.
www.livestrong.com
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