We will use your email address only for sending you newsletters. Please see our Privacy Notice for details of your data protection rights.
Hair loss research is often stymied by limitations but, viewed in its entirety, conclusions can be drawn. The overarching conclusion is that hair loss is a complex phenomenon involving multiple variables. This conclusion may not seem helpful, but it is.
It implies there are multiple strategies to tackling it and invites experimentation.
There is an increasing interest and speculation about the role dietary choices may play in hair loss.
The most convincing link is tied to vitamin deficiency, which suggests that inadequate vitamin intake can accelerate hair loss.
Speaking to Express.co.uk, Sara Alkazraji from the Institute of Trichologists elaborates on the link to iron.
Iron is an essential mineral that performs a number of vital roles in the body.
“Evidence based research shows the nutrient iron enables the human body to make blood and low levels of iron are linked to hair loss,” explains Alkazraji.
A study published in the Journal of Korean Medical Science found that iron may not only play a role in hair loss, but it may cause hair to fall out in a fashion similar to that of genetic male-and female-pattern baldness.
Pattern baldness is a permanent form of hair loss that usually runs in the family.
DON’T MISS
Coronavirus mouthwash: Which mouthwash contains cetylpyridinium chloride amid new study? [INSIGHT]
How to live longer: Kalonji shown to lower cholesterol and blood sugar – what is it? [TIPS]
Coronavirus update: Mouthwash is a quick and efficient COVID-19 killer, suggests new study [ADVICE]
How to replenish the vitamin
According to Alkazraji, consuming iron rich foods such as meat, poultry, fish and green leafy vegetables can help improve low levels of iron.
There are a number of dietary decisions that can impede your iron take so are best to be avoided if you’re at risk.
According to the NHS, you should reduce your intake of tea, coffee milk and dairy to enhance iron uptake.
Foods with high levels of phytic acid, such as wholegrain cereals can also stop your body absorbing iron from other foods and pills, warns the health body.
“Large amounts of these foods and drinks make it harder for your body to absorb iron,” it explains.
General lifestyle tips to avoid hair loss
As Alkazraji explains, despite many claims certain products and treatments will help hair grow, maintaining our existing hair is extremely important.
“Consume a well-balanced diet, avoid hot styling, where possible allow hair to dry naturally and use a good shampoo and conditioner,” she advises.
Stay clear from harsh chemicals and bleaching as these can cause breakage to hair, she warns.
“Avoid styling which involves tension and pulling such as tight ponytails or braiding as these put strain upon the hair and scalp, equally avoid using elasticated ties as these can cause breakage to the hair shaft,” advises Alkazraji.
Lastly, it is important to remain guarded and vigilant as there are many sham products out there.
“The internet search engines can produce a magnitude of promising treatments, many of which can even be purchased across the internet without any professional advice,” explained Alkazraji.
She added: “Medically and financially it is important the public seek professional advice and are not lured into false promises of miracle cures.”
Source: Read Full Article