Does Shedding Weight Mean You Could Be Shedding Your Hair?

There are many different methods that people use to lose weight but whichever method is used, some people will experience temporary hair loss. The more weight you lose, the more likely you are to experience that hair loss. Telogen Effluvium is a condition that can cause hair loss during periods of weight loss, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.  The hair loss is caused when the body senses that starvation is happening and the body starts to protect itself when losing weight. When the person stops losing weight and retains their regular eating plan, the condition usually resolves itself.

However, hair loss may not be due to weight loss. Hair loss can also be a symptom of certain medical problems such as fungal infections, thyroid disorders, or pituitary of parathyroid glands. Also, stress and hormonal changes can trigger temporary hair loss. Hair loss starts to occur when energy is re-directed to more essential needs, like preserving muscles which means there is not enough leftover energy to help supporting tasks, such as hair growth. This protective mechanism means extreme caloric restriction can cause hair loss!

One study that supported the rigorous caloric restriction’s connection to hair loss theory was recently reported in a medical journal.  Nine patients who started an intensive weight reduction program which saw then lose 25 to 55 pounds in weight loss, reported experiencing hair loss of 25% to 50% within two to five months. However, within several months, hair re-growth occurred. Also reported, three patients had experienced hair loss closely following a successful weight reduction program on several occasions.  Rigorous caloric restriction with subsequent inadequate energy supply to the hair is thought to be the cause for the hair loss.

Advice and Tips:

Eating enough calories is essential

Its advised that no more than 2 lbs a week is lost for healthy weight loss. Losing more than that could lead to hair loss.

Eating enough of a major component for hair – Protein!

Individual factors such as body weight and activity levels can influence protein needs. If there is a lack of protein, then that can be a factor in losing hair. The recommended allowance for a pound of body weight is between .8gm and 1gm of protein intake.

Be sure to included whole grain, fruits and vegetables in your diet

Having fruits and vegetables in your diet that contain vitamins A, C and E as well as zinc can help hair growth.  Also, having whole grains that contain irons stop the likelihood of having an iron deficiency, a major contributing factor to hair loss.

Natural supplements can stop hair loss

One supplement that is specifically designed to stop hair loss is from HairMax.  This supplement provides all the essential nutrients needed to help hair growth. As an added benefit, it also strengthens nails and making your skin look healthier. This supplement blends natural vitamins with proven hair strengtheners to support healthier hair.