Copper and zinc play a vital role in our bodies and their deficiency may, among other things, have a negative impact on the health and condition of our hair. Find out how zinc and copper affect hair, what their deficiency symptoms are and how to make sure your body has enough of these elements
Copper is not often mentioned in the context of health, but it is something we should pay more attention to. This element performs a number of important tasks for our health, among others:
takes part in the processes of oxygen transport to cells throughout the body,
supports the circulatory system,
improves the absorption of iron,
prevents anemia,
influences the correct functioning of the skeletal system, the nervous system and brain function,
helps eliminate bacteria in the body.
Copper for hair – how does it work?
Copper also plays an important role for our hair. It is involved in the production of skin pigment, i.e. melanin, thus contributing to the maintenance of strong, saturated, healthy hair colour. In addition, copper is responsible for the level of hair elasticity, affects its strength and condition. People with copper deficiency often have problems with hair that is weak, too fine, difficult to style, splitting or greying.
Copper deficiency – how does it manifest itself?
Copper deficiency can affect the immune system and make us more susceptible to infection and disease. It can weaken the bones and blood vessels, lead to anaemia and cause heart problems. In addition, copper deficiency may be manifested by numbness of the extremities, tingling, decreased concentration and memory difficulties.
Copper in food – where to look for it?
Large amounts of copper can be found in grains such as sunflower seeds, pulses, nuts, cereal flakes and bran and other whole grain products. Liver and seafood, fish, leafy vegetables, and cocoa are also rich sources of copper.
Zinc and its role in the body
Zinc is an element essential for the proper functioning of our body. It takes part in many important processes, among others:
in cell division,
in protein synthesis, RNA and DNA,
in metabolism of carbohydrates and fats.
Zinc also has a significant effect on the body’s immune system; it is also necessary for the proper functioning of the sexual and skeletal systems, as well as for the skin, hair, and nails.
Zinc for hair
The role of zinc for our hair is invaluable because it is the regulator of hair building processes. Zinc determines the proper growth and development of hair. Zinc influences the rate of hair cell division, ‘activates’ the right amount of enzymes needed for the production of hair proteins by the hair matrix and takes care of the supply of hair with the right amount of keratin.
Zinc Deficiency – Symptoms
Zinc deficiency in the body often results in symptoms, such as worsening of the condition of the skin, hair and nails. Wounds heal long and difficult, the frequency of skin complaints increases, excessive dryness of the skin occurs. Nails become brittle and unhealthy looking, white discoloration appears on them. Hair becomes weak, thin and dull. Hair loss also increases.
Zinc deficiency in the body may also be manifested by reduced immunity, slower growth and development (in children and young people), accelerated aging process, lack of appetite, disorders of the senses of taste and smell, frequent fatigue, depressive states, impaired concentration, hormonal disorders, anemia.
Zinc – what foods does it occur in?
Zinc in food is quite common, but the best sources are: eggs, meat, fish, nuts, almonds and grains (e.g. sesame, pumpkin). High amounts of this element can also be found in: bran, cereal flakes and germs, in tomatoes, parsley, cabbage, broccoli, garlic, legumes and wild rice.
Copper and zinc for hair – how to use?
Hairloss, baldness, greying, thin and thin hair, dull, unclear hair colour and lack of natural shine, split ends, problems with styling – all this may be due to a deficit of zinc or copper (or both) in the body. In order to counteract this deficiency it is worth introducing a diet rich in products containing copper and zinc.
We can also help ourselves with appropriate vitamin-mineral preparations. Large amounts of zinc and copper can be found, among others, in Profolan – the richest, in terms of composition, preparation against baldness.
