It is such a mystery why people fail to acknowledge the role our lifestyle plays in protecting our hair. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can sometimes take a back seat in our fast-paced world, but the attention it needs can be boosted only by laying enough emphasis on the role it plays.
One lifestyle aspect that often gets overlooked is the impact of unhealthy eating habits on various aspects of our health, including hair. Hair loss is a common concern, and its connection to diet might surprise many. Here’s how unhealthy eating habits can impact hair loss, and the importance of nutrition for healthy locks.
Lack of Essential Nutrients
Our hair requires a variety of essential nutrients to grow and stay healthy. When our diet lacks these crucial elements, it can lead to hair loss. For instance, according to a study published in the journal ‘Dermatology Practical & Conceptual,’ insufficient intake of vitamins like A, C, D, and E, as well as minerals such as iron and zinc, can negatively impact hair health.
Excessive Junk Food Consumption
A diet high in processed and junk foods not only affects overall health but also takes a toll on the condition of our hair. These foods often lack the essential nutrients needed for hair growth, and their high levels of unhealthy fats can contribute to poor blood circulation, reducing the supply of nutrients to hair follicles.
According to a study published in the journal ‘Nature,’ a high-fat diet can trigger inflammatory signals in hair follicles, ultimately resulting in hair thinning and loss.
Crash Diets and Extreme Caloric Restrictions
Engaging in crash diets or severely restricting calorie intake can shock the body and lead to nutritional deficiencies. Rapid weight loss, often associated with these extreme dieting practices, can trigger a type of hair loss known as telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the resting phase and falls out.
As per a case report titled ‘Alopecia in Crash Dieters,’ participants experienced profuse hair loss of up to 25-50% for two months after starting a vigorous weight reduction programme. The research concluded that the cause is probably rigorous caloric restriction resulting in inadequate energy supply.
Sugar and Hair Health
Excessive sugar consumption has been linked to various health issues, and hair loss is no exception. High levels of sugar can lead to inflammation, negatively impacting the hair follicles and potentially contributing to conditions like androgenetic alopecia, a common form of hair loss.
This has been corroborated by numerous studies, like one published in MDPI’s journal ‘Nutrients,’ which found links between artificially sweetened beverages and male pattern baldness, stating that ‘sugar-sweetened beverage consumption could have a potentially negative effect on one’s appearance.’
Dehydration and Hair Loss
A habit as simple as not drinking enough water can also affect our hair. Dehydration can weaken hair shafts, making them more prone to breakage and shedding. Staying well-hydrated is thus essential for maintaining the overall health of our hair and skin.
Also Read: Hair Care In Winter: Hair Are Some Hot Oil Blends That Can Help Prevent Hair Fall
While genetics and other factors play a role in hair loss, unhealthy eating habits can exacerbate the condition. Adopting a balanced and nutritious diet, rich in vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients, is crucial for promoting healthy hair growth. By being mindful of what we eat, we support our overall well-being and contribute to the strength and vitality of our locks. Remember, a healthy lifestyle reflects not just in how we feel but also in how we look, including the health of our hair.