Our hair and nails are a non-essential tissue, they’re one of the last places to receive nutrient supply to grow and repair after vital organs of the body have been accommodated. Sometimes the cause of hair loss and excess shedding can be impacted by the diet and should be a consideration when addressing the cause.
Our diet and healthy hair
Adequate food intake is crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Insufficient calorie consumption can result in a deficiency of essential nutrients necessary for optimal hair growth. This concern is exacerbated during periods of extreme weight loss, such as when following a low-calorie diet, where the body may struggle to obtain the minimal nutrients required to support the hair growth cycle. Adjustments to the diet or nutrient supplementation may be necessary.
Protein and iron are the most commonly seen deficiencies associated with excess hair shedding.
Protein is a primary component of hair, specifically keratin. Adequate protein intake is essential for keratin production, which directly affects hair strength and texture. Protein deficiency can lead to weak, brittle hair prone to breakage and shedding. Incorporating sufficient protein sources into the diet supports the growth of strong, resilient hair strands.
Iron plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen to the hair follicles, promoting healthy hair growth. It is a vital component of haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells responsible for carrying oxygen throughout the body. Insufficient iron levels can lead to decreased oxygen supply to the hair follicles, resulting in weakened hair shafts and slower growth. Iron deficiency anaemia is often associated with hair loss and thinning.
Impaired nutrient absorption is another consideration for diet-related hair loss, often linked to malabsorption. Symptoms of malabsorption include bloating, flatulence, burping, nausea, diarrhoea, and heartburn. Factors contributing to poor absorption may include eating meals under stressful conditions, consuming meals too quickly, inadequate production of stomach acid or pancreatic enzymes, imbalance in bowel movement, or high-fibre diets. Addressing these factors can help improve nutrient absorption to support healthier hair growth.
If you are experiencing hair loss or shedding due to diet related causes, fortunately, once calorie intake and nutrients are restored to optimal levels, improvements in hair health should become apparent, with noticeable growth expected within three to six months, and shedding should diminish.
Remember, every individual is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you need personalised guidance and support in achieving your hair health goals, feel free to reach out to me for advice and assistance.
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