Do you struggle with hair loss as one of your PCOS symptoms?
Here are some important nutrients to pay attention to if you struggle with hair loss as one of your PCOs SYMPTOMS
- Zinc– this is probably THE most important vitamin to focus on with PCOS hair loss. Not only because it is a powerful antioxidant and important for maintaining insulin sensitivity, but also because it inhibits the enzyme involved in converting testosterone to DHT, non aromatizable form of testosterone. High levels of DHT can shrink hair follicles and shorten hair growth cycle. Women with PCOS are often deficient in zinc. A study done in women with PCOS, 41.7% of women who supplemented with zinc saw an improvement in hair loss compared to an only 12.5% improvement in those who took a placebo
(Jamilian M, Foroozanfard F, Bahmani F. Biol Trace Elem Res. 2016 Apr;170(2):271-8)
- Iron- not necessarily related to PCOS, but hair loss can be a sign of iron deficiency. Make sure to include plenty of iron rich foods and pair with Vitamin C rich foods (citrus fruits, bell peppers, berries, tomatoes) to increase absorption
- Vitamin D- women with PCOS have a higher prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency compared with other adults. Vitamin D plays a huge role in inflammation and glucose metabolism, both of which can impact testosterone levels and therefore hair loss.
- Omega-3 fatty acids– one of the most important nutrients to help with inflammation and insulin resistance and can help with lowering testosterone levels
- Fiber– increasing fiber intake can help improve insulin sensitivity which in turn can help lower testosterone levels
