Magnesium supports several functions in the body including energy production, muscle health, and nerve health. It is an essential mineral that is commonly believed to contribute to healthy hair growth and maintenance. Dietician Deepali Sharma, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, says, “Magnesium deficiency can have a significant impact on hair health, potentially leading to hair loss.” In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Sharma throws light on the issue, even as more research is ongoing on this.
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Can Magnesium Deficiency Lead To Hair Loss?
According to research published by the American Physiological Society, magnesium is responsible for over 600 reactions in the body. These include energy creation, gene maintenance, muscle movements and formation of protein. Magnesium is involved in protein synthesis, which is crucial for the production of keratin, the main structural protein in hair. Sufficient magnesium levels support the formation and maintenance of strong, healthy hair strands.
In addition, magnesium helps improve blood circulation, including to the scalp. This enhanced blood flow ensures that essential nutrients and oxygen reach the hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth.
Dr Sharma said, “This essential mineral is crucial for regulating calcium levels in the body. When magnesium levels decline, calcium can accumulate in the hair follicles, causing damage and excessive hair fall.”
“Hence, magnesium plays a vital role in various bodily functions, particularly in promoting healthy hair by nourishing the hair follicles, improving blood circulation, regulating calcium levels, reducing inflammation, and maintaining hormonal balance,” she added.
Other Symptoms Of Magnesium Deficiency
Symptoms of magnesium deficiency can vary, and some common signs and symptoms include:
- Muscle cramps and spasms
- Fatigue and weakness
- Irregular heartbeat
- Nervous system disorders, leading to symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, restlessness, and even numbness or tingling in extremities
- Poor sleep quality
- Headaches and migraines
- Weak or brittle bones
How To Get Optimum Levels
To combat magnesium deficiency, it is advisable for individuals to incorporate magnesium-rich foods into their diet. These include:
- Green leafy vegetables
- Nuts
- Whole grains
- Legumes, fish
- Avocado
“Alongside a balanced diet, consulting a doctor and considering prescribed magnesium supplements can also be beneficial in addressing the deficiency,” said Sharma.
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Other Causes Of Hair Loss To Watch Out For
Hair loss can also occur due to other factors. These include:
Genetic factors
The most common cause of hair loss is hereditary baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia. It is influenced by your genes. According to research, genetics accounts for about 80 percent of male pattern baldness. The study was conducted using the UK Biobank Resource, in The University of Edinburgh Centre for Cognitive Ageing and Cognitive Epidemiology.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal imbalances, such as those that occur during pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, or thyroid disorders, can contribute to hair loss.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as alopecia areata, scalp infections, trichotillomania (hair-pulling disorder), and autoimmune diseases, can lead to hair loss.
Physical or emotional stress
Physical stressors like surgery, illness, or significant weight loss, as well as emotional stress, can trigger temporary hair loss known as telogen effluvium.
Medications and treatments
Some medications, including chemotherapy drugs, anticoagulants, and certain antidepressants, may cause hair loss as a side effect. Additionally, treatments like radiation therapy can result in localised hair loss.
Hairstyling practices
Excessive heat styling, tight hairstyles (e.g., ponytails or braids), and chemical treatments (e.g., perming or straightening) can damage the hair shaft and lead to breakage and hair loss.
Conclusion
Hair loss can occur due to various reasons, magnesium deficiency being one. While more research is needed to support magnesium’s impact on hair health, increasing your intake can benefit your overall health.
