HairFactz Definitions
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Zinc
Zinc is an essential mineral that is found in almost every cell. It stimulates the activity of approximately 100 enzymes, which are substances that promote biochemical reactions in your body. Zinc supports a healthy immune system, is needed for wound healing, helps maintain your sense of taste and smell, and is needed for DNA synthesis. Zinc also supports normal growth and development during pregnancy, childhood, and adolescence. Zinc deficiency most often occurs when zinc intake is inadequate or poorly absorbed, when there are increased losses of zinc from the body, or when the body's requirement for zinc increases. Signs of zinc deficiency include:
Hair loss - alopecia (hair loss) - a few studies that examined the efficacy of zinc in treating alopecia report conflicting results. Additional information is needed before a conclusion can be made.
Growth retardation.
Diarrhea.
Delayed sexual maturation and impotence.
Eye and skin lesions.
Loss of appetite.
There is also evidence that weight loss, delayed healing of wounds, taste abnormalities, and mental lethargy can occur. More about Zinc.