There’s something about a good hair day that instantly elevates our mood! Then there are those days when you see strands on your pillowcase and clumps of hair in the shower. It’s a worrying feeling when you realise that your hair is falling!
Hair loss and hair thinning are increasingly common these days. Research from the American Academy of Dermatology says that people who have recovered from COVID 19 see noticeable hair loss, which has lasted for up to 6-9 months. While this may be temporary, many other underlying causes of hair loss can progress if it’s not dealt with in time.
Here’s a quick 3 step guide to thick and healthy hair, courtesy Lovneet Batra, one of New Delhi’s most popular nutritionists.
Step 1: Get to the root of the problem
Your genes: Both men and women can suffer from hereditary hair loss, especially as you become older. In these cases, it may help to support hair growth externally. However, genes are dynamic and are influenced by our environment and our internal health, indicating that we need to look after both aspects for our well-being.
Emotional or mental stress: Research shows that chronic stress can lead to hair loss over time.
Hormonal changes: Women go through so many hormonal fluctuations as they age. From adolescence to pregnancy and childbirth and menopause, these fluctuating levels may affect hair fall. Certain conditions like PCOS and thyroid imbalances also add to the problem.
Medical conditions: Certain auto-immune conditions like alopecia areata and scalp infections may cause patchy hair loss. Chemotherapy and radiation can cause diffuse hair shedding as well.
Nutritional deficiencies: The most common cause of hair loss is usually related to our diet. Women vitamin A, vitamin D, iron, selenium, and proteins experience hair loss over time, getting severe if not caught early.
Step 2: Get the right diagnosis
If you are experiencing severe hair loss, consult with an expert to diagnose the proper condition, to get you treated at the earliest. External and home treatments may temporarily help but understanding the underlying disease and managing those is essential to getting healthy hair for life.
Step 3: Get healthy… from the inside out!
Taking care of both your physical and mental health can go a long way to preserve your hair.
A plant-based, high fibre diet can reduce signs of inflammation. Integrating foods rich in vital nutrients like biotin, zinc, proteins, magnesium, and omega-three fatty acids are great for preventing hair fall. These can include leafy greens, like spinach and kale, filled with vitamin A, vitamin C, and folate. Fruits like pomegranate, oranges and berries are rich in antioxidants to boost hair growth and decrease hair damage. Nuts and seeds are enriched with vitamin E, zinc selenium and omega-three fatty acids.
The link between healthy hair and our diet is more vital than we realise, and it just takes a few changes to prevent and even reverse hair fall. However, we mustn’t forget our mental well-being’s role in physical health. Taking measures to reduce stress through meditation or breathing exercises will positively affect your overall health as well as your hair.
