You use every healthy hair product you can get your hands on, shampoo only when necessary, keep heated styling to a minimum, sleep on a silk pillowcase, and are still seeing thin, limp, lackluster hair? What goes in also has a bearing on how your mane looks and feels. Find out which foods might be causing your hair to look less than lovely.
Can Foods Cause Hair Loss?
There are kitchen staples that are the best food for hair loss and keeping your mane in top shape. And, yes, there are foods that cause hair loss, both directly and indirectly.
All the foods for hair help to make strands feel strong and resilient, and lend body and shine to your hair. You know how filling up on junk can make your skin appear dull and deflated? Same goes for your locks.
While diet is extremely important in keeping your entire body, including your hair, in its best shape, be sure there isn’t an underlying condition causing your hair loss. Autoimmune disorders and food allergies and hair loss are common conditions.
5 Foods That Cause Hair Loss
Research published in Dermatology Practical & Conceptual journal states that nutrient deficiencies can lead to hair loss. Everyone deserves to indulge now and then, but consuming too many foods low in nutrients can take a toll on the appearance of your hair. Below are those foods best eaten infrequently.
- Refined Carbs
These are the sugary and highly processed foods that taste so good and deliver that instant hit of satisfaction. But quelling your sweet tooth can come at a price. These foods cause hair loss because they increase inflammation in the body and research shows that decreasing inflammation can help to reduce the appearance of hair loss.
A study published in Menopausal Review journal shows that over-production of sebum and disturbances in blood flow due to high carbohydrate intake can also lead to an increase in hair loss in women. Swap those refined carbs for whole foods, like whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Low Protein Diets
Protein supports keratin in hair—the substance that makes hair look thick and glossy—so it’s absolutely essential to get proper protein in the foods you eat, especially iron-rich protein. Meats, fish, beans, and nuts are great sources of iron-rich protein. Strive to make protein 10-15% of your diet.
- Vitamin & Mineral Deficient Foods
Junk foods might taste good, but they are low in essential vitamins and minerals needed for healthy hair. Vitamins A, B, and C are all super necessary, as are minerals like selenium. This one is easy. Simply stock your daily eating plan with plenty of colorful fresh fruits and veggies for the ultimate gorgeous hair nosh session.
- Fried Foods
Obviously, fried foods don’t do you any good in the healthy living department. Sure, we all have to have the occasional french fry or handful of potato chips. But overindulging in fried foods can wreak havoc on your locks. Basically, this food group is void of any nutrients and full of unhealthy fats. Eat these as little as possible to feel good and look great.
- Foods With Toxic Load
There is research stating foods that harbor certain toxins can cause symptoms of alopecia. Toxins like thallium, mercury, arsenic, and botulinum toxin all have links to hair loss. Organ meats, seafood, some vegetables, and certain grains have been shown to contain these toxins. To cut down on your exposure to metals and toxins in the foods you eat, avoid consuming excessive amounts of seafood and opt for organic produce and grains whenever possible.
Steering clear of foods that cause hair loss and using natural hair care products with hair superfoods, like the ST. TROPICA Hair Care line-up, will keep your hair looking full, thick, and healthy!
Charlie M
March 21, 2023
Great read! I never knew that certain foods could cause hair loss. Thanks to this blog, I can make better choices for my hair health.