DIETARY
Hair loss may also occur due to dieting. Are you reducing your calorie intake in the hopes of losing weight? The weight you may shed might not be the only thing you lose. Our bodies rely on a constant source of calories to meet our basic needs. When we experience a sudden change in caloric intake, our body adjusts to support our life-sustaining organs. The hair becomes thinner, and you may notice an increase in hair shedding from the scalp. Once the nutritional mistake is corrected, the hair growth cycle should resume.
Here are the nutrition mistakes associated with temporary hair loss.
- Excessive intake of vitamin A (known as hypervitaminosis A) has several consequences and is typically caused by consuming excessive amounts of supplements.
- Protein deficiency can cause hair loss because the body utilizes this macronutrient to build and repair new cells. When the supply of protein is low, the body starts rationing it.
- Iron deficiency can deprive the body of an essential mineral that is a component of all cells. Telogen effluvium in women is commonly caused by this factor.
- Rapid weight loss, such as losing more than fifteen pounds in a short period, can result in a temporary hormone imbalance. Hormones help regulate hair growth, so your weight loss may result in temporary hair loss. Once the body adjusts, hair growth resumes spontaneously.
- Eating disorders can result in hair loss due to various reasons. They are often associated with nutrient deficiencies, weight loss, and hormone imbalances, all of which can impact hair growth.
Physical and Emotional Stress
Surgeries, severe illnesses, and emotional stress can cause hair loss. During periods of stress, the body simply shuts down the production of hair because it is not necessary for survival. Instead, the body devotes its energy to repairing vital body structures. In many cases, there is a three-month delay between the actual event and the onset of hair loss. There may be an additional three-month delay before noticeable hair growth returns. This means that the total hair loss and regrowth cycle can last 6 months or longer when induced by physical or emotional stress. There may be some health conditions that can go undetected and contribute to hair loss.
Hormonal
Hormonal changes are a common cause of hair loss in women. Many women are unaware that hair loss can occur after pregnancy or when discontinuing birth control pills. It is important to remember that hair loss may be delayed by three months following hormonal changes, and it may take another six months to a year for new growth to be fully achieved.