Hair loss can come about for many reasons including a deficiency in key nutrients like iron. If you don't get enough iron, you may develop anemia, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, headaches and hair loss. The best way to prevent this is to eat a balanced diet that contains iron-rich foods and to take iron supplements, if necessary. Talk to your doctor about the best ways for you to consume iron.
Symptoms of Deficiency
An iron deficiency is the world's number one nutritional disorder, according to the World Health Organization. When you don't get enough iron, you can become anemic, and the symptoms will vary according to the severity of your condition. Common symptoms include a decrease in appetite, irritability, paleness, shortness of breath, a sore tongue, unusual food cravings, weakness, brittle or breaking nails and hair loss. If you experience these symptoms or suspect you have an iron deficiency, seek medical attention.
Causes and Risks of a Deficiency
You can develop iron deficiency anemia in many ways. The first is not meeting the RDA of iron, which is 18 mg for women and 8 mg for men. You can also develop this condition if you lose blood due to a bleeding ulcer, heavy menstruation, trauma or surgery. If your body cannot absorb the iron you eat due to a condition like celiac or Crohn's disease, you can develop a deficiency as well. Strict vegetarians, pregnant women, seniors or people who take ibuprofen or aspirin for extended periods are all at risk of developing an iron deficiency.
Importance of Iron and Sources
Iron is in your red blood cells and is responsible for providing oxygen to all the cells in your body, as well as circulating blood. These processes are essential for many functions, including healthy hair growth. You can meet your RDA for iron by consuming foods like egg yolks, peas, beans, organ meats, dark leafy green vegetables, dates and raisins. You can also take iron in the form of a supplement, which may be necessary if you have anemia, but discuss these with your doctor before you begin consuming them.
Other Causes of Hair Loss
While an iron deficiency can lead to hair loss, you may lose your strands for other reasons as well. If you have a vitamin deficiency or follow an otherwise poor diet, you may experience hair loss and thinning. Certain medications, like beta-blockers, as well as skin diseases and hormonal abnormalities can result in a loss of locks, too. Finally, losing hair may just be the result of the normal aging process. If you are concerned about your hair loss or if you believe it may have an underlying cause, see your doctor and tell her about your symptoms.
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