Hair loss is not common, however, it can occur during any changes to diet or lifestyle. It is important to note that hair is constantly cycling through growth and loss phases- this is part of its natural rhythm. Diet/Lifestyle changes (including factors like stress, food intolerances, energy restriction, lack of sleep, changes to cleaning products etc.) may exacerbate or prolong the loss phase. If you would like to learn more, we highly recommend reading our HAIR HEATH blog. There are also a number of hormonal changes and nutrient insufficiencies related to hair loss, including Vitamin D, zinc and iron. These can be tested for and corrected through your GP. Please note that doctors often test for 'deficiencies' rather than 'insufficiencies'- a nutrient score in the low end of 'normal' may still be linked to a personal challenge, however, doctors will not recognise this if it is within the 'normal' range. It is always a good idea to receive a copy of the tests for yourself so you can analyse them or have a complementary therapist analyse them.
Hair loss that results from weight loss is a temporary condition that is generally known as telogen effluvium (TE). Luckily, it is known that this form of hair loss is short-term, and hair will grow back. In more good news, research points to 3 key factors for helping to reduce or prevent weight-loss-induced hair-loss:
1. Manage stress: Those with higher stress are reported to experience higher levels of TE, which occurs as a result of subsequent changes in the hair growth cycle when one is stressed. Stress causes the release of specific neuropeptides, neurotransmitters, and hormones along this brain-hair follicle axis that promotes noteworthy changes in the hair growth cycle by stimulating the transition of anagen hairs into the telogen (shedding) phase. To help avoid moving into the 'shedding' phase of hair loss, work towards ways of managing your stress. This may involve meditating, speaking to a counsellor, gratitude journaling, having a weekly massage, reading more, going for walks in nature- anything that helps you feel calmer and more balanced!
2. Minerals (Zinc, Copper and Iron): Research shows that Zinc supplementation (Sulphate 200 mg three times a day) results in the arrest of hair loss and subsequent hair regrowth in TE. Since zinc and copper share an inverse relationship for absorption, and prolonged intake of high doses of zinc may foster copper deficiency, which is liked to heightened experiences of TE. To combat this, it is recommended to maintain 1mg of copper for every 8-15mg of zinc to avoid zinc-induced copper deficiency. Iron and biotin: There is some suggestion that reduced levels of Zinc and Biotin are present in those who experience TE.
3. Protein: Eating enough protein plays a crucial role in improving hair health due to its impact on hair structure, growth, and overall appearance. Hair is primarily composed of a protein called keratin, and ensuring an adequate protein intake can positively influence various aspects of hair health. A lack of protein has therefore been shown to trigger TE. Consuming sufficient protein provides amino acids that aid in cell division and the production of new hair cells, leading to improved hair growth rates. If you are looking for natural and delicious ways to increase your daily protein intake, you'll love our PlantWell Protein Powder!
If you would like further assistance, we strongly encourage you to read our HAIR HEALTH blog, and to see a Naturopath or another alternative therapist for further investigations and personalised treatment.
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