Is Ferritin Good for Hair Loss?

Low iron can lead to anaemia and affect the blood supply in the body, including our hair. Iron also helps maintain the level of red blood cells that transport oxygen in the body to various organs and tissues. A reduction in the number of blood cells can lead to hair loss as the blood and oxygen do not get distributed to the scalp and hair follicles. 

You might be aware of iron deficiencies but may not have come across the word ferritin. It is the protein present in the cells that stores iron. Therefore, being low on your ferritin levels means the body has iron deficiency. Low Ferritin and hair loss are inter-connected.

Ferritin is available in different parts of the body and also available in hair cells. When the body feels a lack of iron for making new blood cells and circulation of oxygen, it borrows ferritin from the hair follicles, leaving them weak and prone to breakage.

Some Iron-rich food to store a good level of ferritin include –

• Green Leafy Vegetables
• Cocoa powder
• Oatmeal
• Tofu
• Paneer
• lamb and beef
• Nuts
• Pumpkin
• Spinach
• Broccoli
• Parsley
• Lentils
• Potato 
• Cabbage
• Peas

You may be suggested to take iron supplements to replenish ferritin deficiencies for hair growth. But if your body’s ferritin level is normal, then supplements may not aid in hair growth or reduce hair loss.