Why do fad diets cause hair loss?

Hair loss is a common problem, especially when following fad diets or overly restrictive eating plans . These diets, which promise rapid weight loss in a short period of time, can have a negative impact on hair health due to a lack of energy and essential nutrients.

The hair follicle, responsible for hair production, is one of the most active structures in our body and requires a large amount of energy and nutrients to function properly. During restrictive diets, the body prioritizes vital functions, and the hair, no longer necessary for survival, stops receiving the energy and nutrients it needs.

How does a lack of nutrients affect hair?

1. Decreased hair growth : During a restrictive diet, the lack of essential proteins, vitamins, and minerals like zinc and iron causes the hair follicle to slow down hair production. This results in thinner, less dense hair.
2. Weakening of existing hair : Hair becomes more fragile and prone to breakage as essential nutrients such as biotin and Omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed to maintain hair structure and elasticity, are depleted.
3. Excessive hair loss : When the body experiences a nutritional deficiency, the hair slows down its growth phase (anagen phase), causing more noticeable hair loss. This phenomenon is known as telogen effluvium and is common after extreme diets.

Essential nutrients for healthy hair

A balanced and varied diet like the Mediterranean Diet is key to maintaining strong and healthy hair, so it depends on a diet that contains:

• Proteins : Hair is primarily made up of keratin, a protein. Without an adequate amount of protein in the diet, hair growth is compromised. The most important are those proteins that contain sulfur-containing amino acids such as cysteine. Cysteine ​​provides great resistance and strength to hair. Eating fish, meat, milk, and eggs generally provides adequate protein levels, but in times of fatigue or when on strict diets, a dietary supplement rich in sulfur-containing amino acids can be very helpful.
• B vitamins (biotin) : Biotin is essential for hair growth. A deficiency can cause hair weakness and loss.
• Minerals (zinc, iron) : Zinc helps repair hair tissue, and iron is essential for transporting oxygen to hair follicles.
• Omega-3 fatty acids : Help keep the scalp hydrated and hair flexible.

How to prevent hair loss due to restrictive diets?

1. Choose a balanced diet : Avoid diets that eliminate entire food groups or are too low in calories. Ideally, follow a meal plan that contains protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates in the right amounts.
2. Avoid fad diets : These diets may help you lose weight quickly, but the damage to your hair health can be difficult to reverse.
3. Consider supplements : If your diet is restrictive, consult a healthcare professional about taking supplements such as biotin, zinc, or omega-3 fatty acids to help maintain hair health.

Recommended products to strengthen hair

To counteract the negative effects of fad diets on your hair, we recommend including specific hair strengthening products in your daily routine:

• Shampoos : Formulated to stimulate the scalp and strengthen weakened hair. You can read here which type of shampoo is the best complement to your hair loss treatment .
• Hair serums and lotions : Ideal for directly treating the hair follicle and preventing premature hair loss.
• Food supplements : Well formulated to support healthy hair growth from within.

Conclusion

Following a balanced diet is not only essential for overall health, but also for maintaining strong, healthy hair. Fad diets may seem like a quick fix for weight loss, but in the long run, they can cause more harm than good , especially to hair health. Make sure you're feeding your hair the right nutrients to prevent hair loss and thinning.