Understanding The Causes of Hair Loss: 4 Factors to Consider

In the quest for beautiful hair, many people often attribute thinning hair to aging or genetics alone. However, it's important to understand that the condition of your hair can offer valuable insights into your overall health.

This blog explores potential factors for those dealing with hair loss, such as nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, stress levels, rapid weight loss, and weight loss surgery. Learn about ways to maintain healthy hair, including the impact of micronutrients like iron and vitamin D and stress hormones like cortisol.*

Four Things to Consider if You Experience Hair Loss

If you're dealing with the frustration of hair loss, it's crucial to uncover the reasons behind it for effective solutions. Below are four things to consider if you experience hair loss or thinning to help you better understand and address the contributing factors.

1. Be alert for nutritional deficiencies

One of the most common culprits behind hair thinning is nutrient deficiency. Hair follicles require a range of nutrients to maintain health and vitality. Vitamin D, vitamin B₁₂, protein, and iron deficiency can lead to hair loss over time.

Suppose you can’t get all the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs from food alone. In that case, a healthcare provider may recommend a multivitamin and high-quality protein supplements, like the whey protein isolate found in Unjury^® products.*

2. Check-in with your medical team for hormonal imbalances

Your hormones play a crucial role in regulating hair growth. When there are imbalances in your thyroid hormone and cortisol, a stress hormone, it can lead to hair thinning and inhibit hair growth.

If you think you are experiencing side effects of hormonal changes, consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.

3. Evaluate your stress levels and mental health

Stress can significantly impact hair health. Telogen effluvium, a condition in which more hair follicles enter the shedding phase, can occur after a stressful event, such as surgery or illness.

If you experience this type of temporary hair loss, it’s advised to practice gentle hair care, find ways to manage stress, and follow a balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider if the hair loss persists or worsens.

4. Hair thinning is common after weight loss surgery

While the primary goal of bariatric surgery is to promote weight loss and improve overall health, it can lead to certain side effects, including hair loss. This type of hair loss is typically due to telogen effluvium.

A study published by Obesity Surgery found:¹

• Hair loss after bariatric surgery was significant but decreased over time.
• Patients with low serum levels of zinc, folic acid, and ferritin had a higher chance of hair loss post-surgery.
• The protein status of patients with hair loss was significantly lower than in subjects without hair loss.

There has also been evidence that hair loss might be attributed to the stress of the surgery as well as other stressors related to recovery and management of obesity.¹

It's important to note that hair loss after bariatric surgery is usually temporary and tends to resolve over time. Ensure you are eating a well-balanced diet, taking your daily recommended supplements, and continuing with regular follow-ups.**

Summary

Thinning hair can serve as a valuable indicator of your overall health. By closely monitoring the condition of your hair, you may gain early insights into potential nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, elevated stress levels, or other underlying health issues.

To support healthy hair and overall well-being, adopting a balanced diet rich in high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals is crucial. Regular health check-ups, effective stress management practices, and the use of specialized supplements can also play key roles in maintaining the health of both your hair and your body.*

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Reference

1. Zhang W et al. Obesity Surgery. 2021;31:2649-2659.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

**Always consult with a healthcare professional to understand the underlying cause of hair thinning and receive appropriate treatment.