Losing weight is a common goal for many people. Whether it’s to improve their health or look their best, weight loss is a challenge that requires a lot of dedication and hard work. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize that weight loss can cause hair loss. Yes, you heard that right! The truth is, certain diets and weight loss measures can be detrimental to your hair. Let’s explore why and how weight loss impacts hair health and offer actionable tips to help you prevent hair loss during your weight loss journey.
1. Nutrient-deficient diets and hair loss:
Almost all diets that are deemed effective for weight loss are deficient in some essential nutrients such as protein, biotin, iron, B12, and zinc that are crucial for hair health. As you lose weight, the body starts using stored nutrients to provide energy to the cells. When nutrient levels become low, the body starts channeling the nutrients to the vital organs, and hair becomes the least priority. This interruption in hair growth can cause hair loss. Therefore, it is vital to consume nutrient-dense foods that promote hair health.
2. Hair loss after bariatric surgery:
Bariatric surgery is a procedure that reduces the stomach size and changes the digestive system’s functioning, resulting in weight loss. Although bariatric surgery helps in reducing weight and improving overall health, it also increases the risk of hair loss. Bariatric surgery patients often experience hair loss three to six months post-surgery due to the substantial change the body undergoes after the procedure. Most of these patients experience hair regrowth after few months of hair loss as hair follicles go through the telogen phase of hair growth. The best way to prevent hair loss post-bariatric surgery is to maintain a healthy diet and consider hair supplements.
3. Medications used for weight loss:
Wegovy and Ozempic are two medications that aid in weight loss. While they can help promote weight loss, they can also cause hair loss, which can be challenging to treat. These medications work by increasing insulin production in the body, which results in the regulation of blood sugar levels. Insulin regulation can lead to low blood sugar levels known as hypoglycemia, which can lead to hair loss.
4. Importance of a balanced diet:
A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients such as biotin, protein, iron, B12, and zinc can help maintain overall hair health, preventing hair loss. Foods such as eggs, spinach, berries, and nuts can provide essential nutrients that promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Also, consulting a registered dietitian can help you plan a diet that meets your nutritional requirements.
5. Other things you can do to prevent hair loss:
While weight loss can indeed lead to hair loss, several other factors can cause hair loss, such as genetics, stress, and hormonal changes. Therefore, making lifestyle changes that promote hair health is vital. Regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, and reduced stress can help prevent hair loss.
Weight loss and hair loss are intertwined, and it is essential to understand how your weight loss measures can impact your hair health. While certain diets, medications, and weight loss surgeries might help you lose weight, they can also cause hair loss. Therefore, investing in hair supplements, a nutrient-rich diet, and healthy lifestyle choices can help maintain hair health while losing weight. Moreover, it is essential to consult with your doctor or a registered dietitian to determine which weight loss measures are suitable for your body and hair health.
About the Author
Christen Barrs is an accomplished Extension Specialist with nearly 20 years of experience in the industry. As the founder and owner of Good Hair Collective, she specializes in providing hair extensions for women dealing with thinning hair.
But Good Hair Collective isn’t just for clients. Christen has crafted it to be a forward-thinking salon for artists as well, creating a space where innovation and creativity in hair artistry are nurtured and celebrated.
Through her work, Christen enhances her clients’ appearance and boosts their self-esteem. She is dedicated to continuous learning and shares her wealth of knowledge through her insightful blog posts. For more information about her work or to book a consultation, visit out website.