Can a fasting Zinc level below 80 ug/dl cause hair loss?

Question

I recently checked my blood zinc level after fasting 16 hours (I have read that zinc levels drop after eating), and also my copper levels and vitamin D. All 3 are in the low range. My hair is extremely thin everywhere on my scalp but my hairline isn't receding. Male pattern baldness does not run in my family at 21. Is it possible that correcting these nutritional deficiencies could fix my hair?

Jeff Rapaport, MD · Answer

Vitamin D, Selenium, Copper and Zinc deficiency can precipitate hair loss or changes in hair texture or diameter. Therefore,  correction with diet or supplementation may improve your hair condition. Find a hair expert.
Jeff Rapaport MD FAAD 
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Audrey G. Bauer, MD · Answer

It is difficult to assess without knowing actual lab values. But regardless, in patients with deficiencies, the first step should always be to correct these. Until then, you won't really know what, if any, role they play in your hair loss. My advice would be to correct and then re-evaluate your hair after 6 months at a normal level. Hope this helps.

Jeff Donovan, MD, PhD · Answer

Ideally, one needs to see a doctor for proper evaluation. But you are describing patterned hair loss. Zinc deficiency is not a cause of patterned loss so it would be very unlikely for it to benefit. The hairline is not always affected in males - especially in the early stages and especially when young males start thinning. It would be unusual for zinc deficiency to be responsible for this loss. However, you’ll know in 3-4 months for sure if you replace your deficiencies.

Samer Muala, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I always advocate for good nutrition and appropriate supplementation but it should be done in a way that is safe and effective.  If you want to share your labs, I would be happy to review them.

Can a fasting Zinc level below 80 ug/dl cause hair loss?

Answers (4)