Do you have HAIRLOSS?

WHY DOES HAIRLOSS OCCUR?

Hairloss occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles, where hair growth begins. It usually starts with one or more small, round, smooth bald patches on the scalp and can progress to total scalp hairloss or complete body hairloss. Reasons for hairloss can range from the simple nutrition deficiency to the more complex health conditions. Anything that interferes with the normal hair growth cycle like medication, illness, infection or chemicals have the capability to stop hair from being formed properly. The common types of hairloss includes male-pattern hairloss, female-pattern hairloss, alopecia areata and thinning of hair known as telogen effluvium.

REASONS FOR HAIRLOSS IN MALES

Male pattern hair loss can be caused by a combination of genetic and hormonal factors. A hormone called dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (produced locally at the site of hair roots) causes a change in the hair roots on the scalp. The hair produced by the affected follicles become progressively smaller in diameter, shorter in length and lighter in color until eventually the follicles shrink completely and stop producing hair.5 Other causes include family history, medications like steroids, thyroid conditions.

REASONS FOR HAIRLOSS IN FEMALES

There are many causes of hairloss. A combination of genetic and hormonal factors can lead to hairloss. Hair becomes progressively smaller in diameter, shorter in length and lighter in color until eventually the hair roots shrink completely and stop producing hair.

OTHER CAUSES INCLUDE

Hormonal imbalance normally occurs in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Acne, increased facial hair, irregular periods and infertility are all signs of PCOS. Medications used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, high blood pressure and birth control, excessive intake of vitamin A, protein deficiency, radiation therapy to the head, a trigger event (after a physical or emotional shock), other trigger events include sudden or excessive weight loss, high fever, surgery or a death in the family.

FOOD FOR HEALTHY HAIR

• Oily fish (2 portions a week): Salmon, herring,mackerel, sardines and trout are packed with protein and good fats (omega-3-fatty acids) that contribute towards hair shine and strength.
• Nuts: Almonds and walnuts are a rich source of zinc and omega-3-fatty acids as well as proteins, which can help to improve the overall look of the hair.
• Eggs: Eggs can boost the growth rate and strength of hair. Eggs also contain B-vitamins, which can boost hair shine.
• Beans and lentils: Packed with proteins, zinc and biotin (vitamin B complex).
• Dairy products (2-3 portions a day): Milk, yoghurt and cheese are rich in proteins as well as calcium, which also contributes to hair growth and thickness.
• Chicken: Containing high levels of proteins as well as healthy hair nutrients such as zinc, iron and B vitamins.