Nutritionist reveals: The 6 things causing hair loss
Despite all the pills and potions available on the market, it is quite common for people to struggle with hair loss.
Australian nutritionist Jessica Spiel has shared six things that also contribute to hair loss that many people overlook.
1. Low thyroid levels
The thyroid, a gland that sits in the front of the neck, can contribute to hair thinning if you have low levels of T3, one of the active thyroid hormones. “It takes nutrients and converts them into two key thyroid hormones, T4 and T3, which get released into the bloodstream, where they regulate your body's metabolism,” she explained. Jessica recommends getting your T3 levels checked by your GP.
2. Low iron levels
We know that low iron levels can cause excessive tiredness but it can also be responsible for hair breakage and thinning, particularly on the crown of your head. If you have low iron levels, it is important to adjust your diet to include iron-rich foods such as red meat, spinach, lentils, sardines and black beans. Jessica also recommends finding a quality iron supplement.
3. Mineral deficiency
“A mineral deficiency may impact your hair's health, as minerals are required for hair growth,” she said. To improve your hair health, increase your intake of minerals such as zinc, iodine and selenium.
4. Stress
Stress not only impacts your mental health, but it also has an impact on your physical body. Jessica recommends taking time to switch off from technology and to relax.
5. Digestion problems
“When your body isn't properly absorbing the nutrients you're consuming, it's likely that your health and hair are going to suffer,” Jessica said. She suggests eating probiotic rich foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir and kombucha. She also recommends prebiotic rich foods such as garlic, onions, leeks and bananas. “These wholefoods help to populate the gut with good flora, which aids digestion and absorption,” she said.
6. Lack of healthy fats and protein
Healthy fats are essential for building hair strength. They can be found in oily fish, salmon, avocado, seeds and nuts. Jessica says to keep watch of the amount of amino acids you are getting from protein to build strong hair cells.
How do you maintain healthy hair? Let us know in the comments below.