FEEDING YOUR FOLLICLES
In a world where haircare often involves an array of products promising miracles, we may be overlooking a fundamental factor—nutrition. The quest for vibrant, healthy hair isn't just about external treatments but begins with what we put on our plates.
Understanding the root cause of hair loss
Hair loss can stem from various causes. A major factor of hair loss is a hormone called Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT attacks follicles, making them shrink and eventually shed. While this is the leading cause of hair loss for men and women, it may not tell the whole story.
Another culprit is Telogen Effluvium (TE), a medical condition that leads to uniform decrease in hair density due to hairs transitioning from the growth to the resting stage of the hair cycle. It can happen at any age and affect either sex. The most noticeable symptom is hair shedding. Common precipitants of TE include scalp disease, febrile illness, trauma, previous surgery, endocrine or hormonal imbalance, childbirth, intake of medications, stress and substantially, nutritional deficiencies.
A consultation with a professional is crucial to identify the root cause of hair loss. A pull test, administered by a doctor, helps assess active hair shedding. In cases of excessive hair loss, blood testing may be necessary to check iron stores, serum vitamin D, and zinc levels. These essential nutrients play vital roles in follicle growth and cycling.
Nutrition for hair health
Consider this: hair is a micro-organ that demands oxygen and nutrients. Rapid changes in dietary intake can prompt a response from your hair. Therefore, maintaining a well-rounded diet is imperative for both the health of your hair and overall well-being.
- Iron, a vital conductor for hair health, is a cofactor for ribonucleotide reductase and is higher in rapidly proliferating hair matrix. Incorporating food rich in iron like spinach, lentils, tofu, eggs, and beef is essential for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to hair follicles.
- Zinc supports hair tissue repair and can be obtained from foods like oysters, nuts, and seeds.
- Vitamin D plays a role in hair follicle cycling and signaling. Supports hair follicle health. Spend time in the sun and include fatty fish, fortified dairy, and eggs in your diet.
Biotin, also known as B7, has been recently making a buzz in social media as the new treatments/supplements for hair loss. This water-soluble vitamin is a key player in metabolic pathways, especially in the synthesis of keratin. Keratin is a protein that forms the skin’s outer layer, hair and nails. While it can benefit cases of genetic or acquired biotin deficiency, evidence supporting its use in healthy individuals remains scant. In summary, there is no firm evidence to support that these improve hair growth unless a person has a specific nutritional deficiency.
Most cases of micronutrient deficiency are responsive to oral supplementation. Response in terms of decrease in hair loss and improvement in density can usually be seen within 3-6 months after correction of the deficient micronutrient.
As holistic approach to hair loss gains prominence globally, stress management, exercise, and diet are now recognized as key players not only in ensuring hair and scalp health but also in nurturing overall well-being. So, the next time you sit down for a meal, remember that nourishing your body is not just a recipe for good health but also a key ingredient for maintaining hair health.