What mineral is crucial for healthy hair growth?

Zinc plays a vital role in maintaining healthy hair growth due to its importance in cell reproduction and regeneration. It helps in the production of keratin, the protein that forms the structure of hair. Additionally, zinc has a significant role in the maintenance of oil glands around the hair follicles, which helps keep the scalp and hair hydrated, promoting optimal hair growth conditions.

While iron, calcium, and magnesium each have their roles in overall health, they do not have the same direct influence on hair growth as zinc. Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the blood, which indirectly supports hair growth, but it doesn't directly contribute to hair structure. Calcium is primarily involved in bone health and muscle function, whereas magnesium supports various biochemical reactions in the body but is not specifically linked to hair growth. Therefore, zinc stands out as the crucial mineral directly influencing healthy hair growth.