Many factors can contribute to hair loss in women, such as genetics, hormones, stress, use of chemicals and heat, as well as wear and tear. However, poor diet and nutrition also play significant and common roles in women's hair loss. The great news is that changing your diet to stop and prevent hair loss is within your control and is a easy and proactive way to assist in sustaining healthy locks for years to come.
Considerations
According to the Mayo Clinic, pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, cicatricial or scarring alopecia, alopecia areata, traction alopecia, hormonal changes, scalp infection and hair treatments are all hair loss issues that affect women. They represent genetics or lifestyle factors that can cause permanent and reversible hair loss. The Mayo Clinic also states, "Having inadequate protein or iron in your diet or poor nourishment in other ways can cause you to experience hair loss." Even though poor nutrition is a definite factor in hair loss, it is always best to consult your physician to determine that the actual cause of your hair loss is more than poor diet and nutrition.
Protein
Hair is composed primarily of a protein called keratin. Diets that are deficient in protein rob your hair of the necessary protein and nutrients needed to keep your hair healthy, strong and growing. According to Hair Loss Buddy, "Diets severely lacking in protein have been known to cause hair loss, as the body tries to reserve protein for more important body functions, such as muscle repair." A diet rich in protein is a proactive way to prevent and even reverse hair loss by providing the essential protein that supports the structure of your hair.
Iron
An iron deficiency can cause a host of mild to severe medical conditions and can also contribute to hair loss. Iron is a crucial mineral that your body thrives on and can be found in every cell and structure of your body. Adequate iron levels in a woman's body help with the stimulation, circulation and production of red blood cells, which play a role in healthy scalp and hair growth. According to National Trichology Services, "In women of menstruating age, when iron levels are frequently less than optimal, this essential mineral is often a common cause for hair loss." Keeping adequate iron levels is important in assisting in the maintenance and reversal of hair loss. A diet rich in iron is a practical way to prevent or reverse hair loss caused by a diet lacking iron
Protein Rich Foods
Hair that is long, full and strong is every women's preference, and foods that are rich in protein assist in sustaining healthy hair. Protein-rich foods come from both animal and plant-based food sources. Animal protein food sources include fish, poultry, red meat, eggs and dairy products. Fruits and vegetables are often not recognized as being a source of protein. However, fruits and vegetables such as dark green leafy vegetables, radishes, cabbage, carrots, melons, oranges and apples are all sufficient. Whole grains, beans and nuts are also excellent food sources that supply rich protein to your diet and for your hair.
Iron Rich Foods
Red meat, poultry and fish are commonly recognized iron-rich food sources for your body to metabolize and for your hair to thrive from. In addition to animal food sources, there are also a host of other food choices that provide iron to your diet and are beneficial, especially to vegetarian and vegan diets. Good sources of plant-based iron rich foods are lentils, legumes, beans, nuts, seeds, raisins, apricots, peaches, dark green leafy vegetables and whole grains.
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