Hereditary influence is a factor in almost all cases of permanent hair loss. Temporary hair loss, on the other hand, can result from nutritional deficiencies, as well as other causes. If a proper diet is maintained, poor nutrition will be avoided and thus, this will help reduce hair thinning and hair loss. Here are a few facts which may help us re-evaluate what we should or should not be eating.

Did you know that a high fat and high sodium diet contributes to hair loss? This type of diet is harmful to our kidneys and increases the acidity of our blood which results in hair loss. Having a low to moderate fat diet may help slow down the hair thinning process. According to some studies, male pattern baldness is connected to high testosterone levels which may have resulted from a diet too high in fat and animal protein.

However, on the other hand, too low protein in one’s diet is not good for the hair as it can lead to hair loss since it can make the hair go in to a resting phase. So, balance is a good thing.
Mono-saturated fats such as those found in nuts and extra virgin olive oil encourage hair growth and revitalize hair follicles.

Too high carbohydrate diets are not good for healthy hair. Carbohydrates are converted to glucose during the digestion process. This raises the blood sugar level of the body which can promote hair loss. Avoid foods with high carbohydrate content such as rice, pasta and potatoes.

Alcohol lowers the zinc, vitamin B, vitamin C and folic acid levels in our body. Each of these are important for the health of our hair. Not to mention the fact that alcohol contains a high level of sugar and calories.

Caffeine decreases the levels of vitamins B and C, potassium and zinc in our body. This deficiency of vitamins strains the adrenal glands which increase levels of DHT, which as we’ve previously discussed, induces hair loss.

Anemia is one cause of thinning hair. Avoid anemia by eating lots of iron-rich foods such as dark green leafy vegetables, dried fruits, cherry juice, liver, eggs, raisins, dates and whole grain cereals.

Silica is another nutrient that helps improve the health of hair. It can reduce hair loss, promotes healthier hair regrowth, strengthens hair follicles and gives shine and luster to our hair. In studies done abroad, silica has been shown to slow down hair loss. An example of silica rich foods would be raw oats, green and red peppers, cucumbers and sprouts.

Be sure to incorporate iodine rich foods into your diet as they are very critical in maintaining the health of your hair. Use sea salt to flavor your food. Eat vegetables such as spinach, carrots, turnips and cabbage. Pine nuts, mustard, millet and cold-pressed seed oils such as pumpkin, walnut and flax seed oil are also rich in iodine.

Can we stop hair loss with diet alone? Maybe not but we can slow it down and be healthier in the process just by following some of these dietary guidelines.