A new study has uncovered what items in our diet could be triggering hair loss
Scientists have pinpointed the exact food and drink items that could either protect against or exacerbate hair loss, according to a review of 17 peer-reviewed studies. The research, which involved over 61,000 participants, found that excessive consumption of sugary drinks was a significant factor in hair loss, particularly in men.
Hair loss is a distressing experience for more than 15.4 million people in the UK. It can come as a shock, especially when unexpected, and can significantly impact mental health, self-esteem, and social interactions.
While many associate hair loss with advancing age, it’s becoming an increasingly prevalent issue among younger individuals. Hair thinning can begin as early as late teens, although the risk increases with age. By the age of 35, 66% of men will have experienced some degree of hair thinning, according to Click2Pharmacy.
The study, Published in the Nutrition and Health journal, classified consuming more than 3,500ml of sugary drinks per week, roughly equivalent to 11 cans of soda, as excessive. One study included in the review found that this level of sugary drink consumption was associated with a substantial increase in hair loss.
The detrimental effect of sugar on hair is thought to be due to the excess sebum production it triggers in the scalp. Sebum is an oily, waxy substance that normally acts as a hydrating barrier to protect your skin and hair.
However, an excess of sebum on the scalp can encourage microbial growth, irritation and inflammation, all of which are factors in hair loss. Alcohol also plays a significant role, contributing to both increased hair loss and premature greying.
Reducing your intake of these two drinks could help slow down or even prevent hair loss. The researchers also identified a variety of foods and beverages that could help keep your locks luscious.
Vitamin D supplements were found to lessen the severity of hair loss, while iron supplements encouraged hair growth. Upping your intake of cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage and kale could also boost hair density and mitigate the effects of hair loss.
The scientists found that certain foods had specific benefits for hair health. Green tea extracts and supplements containing green tea were associated with less hair shedding during clinical trials.
Consuming persimmon leaf led to noticeable improvements in hair strand thickness. Meanwhile, incorporating more than 24 grams of soy into your daily diet was linked to reduced hair loss.
Protein is also crucial for maintaining healthy hair. The study revealed that after just a fortnight of consuming little protein, men’s hair bulbs became noticeably thinner and less pigmented.
In the end, the experts concluded: “Diet and nutrition play a crucial role in hair health, particularly vitamin D and iron supplementation, while limiting alcohol and soft drinks may be beneficial. Further research is needed to confirm these findings.”