Iron

Iron is an essential mineral required for hemoglobin production and oxygen transport throughout the body. Iron deficiency (with or without anemia) is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide and a well-established cause of hair loss, particularly in premenopausal women. Serum ferritin below 30 ng/mL is associated with hair shedding, with optimal levels for hair health typically above 70 ng/mL. Supplemental forms include ferrous sulfate, ferrous bisglycinate (better tolerated), and iron polysaccharide complex.