WEIGHT LOSSLOSS CAN CAUSE HAIR LOSS

Why can hair loss occur after weight loss?

Hair loss during weight loss is commonly caused by nutrient deficiencies as well as other effects sudden and rapid weight loss can have on your body.

For example, sudden weight loss and restrictive diets have been linked to a condition known as acute telogen effluvium (TE), one of the most common causes of widespread hair loss on the scalp .

Typically, TE occurs around 3 months after a triggering event like rapid weight loss and lasts about 6 months.

Weight loss and nutrient deficiencies associated with restrictive diets are also linked to other types of hair loss. These include chronic TE, which lasts longer than 6 months, and androgenic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness .

Here are some causes of hair loss related to diet and weight loss.

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Crash dieting

The link between crash dieting and hair loss has been documented in research as far back as the 1970s .

Your hair needs adequate calories and nutrients to grow properly. So, when your body doesn't receive what it needs, side effects like hair loss can occur.

Many studies have linked hair loss to rapid weight loss, calorie restriction, nutrient deficiencies, and psychological stress - all commonly in people who are following crash diets.

For example, a 2015 study in 180 women with diffuse hair loss found that the most common causes of hair loss were iron deficiency and psychological stress. In eight of the cases, crash diets were the cause 

Poorly planned diets, such as crash diets, can lead to deficiencies in essential fatty acids, zinc, protein, and overall calories, all of which can lead to hair loss .

Impact of Low Protein Diets on Hair Health

Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins, are crucial for hair growth because they are necessary for the production of keratin, the main structural protein of hair. When the body doesn't receive enough protein, known as protein malnutrition, it can lead to hair loss. This is a common risk for individuals following low-calorie weight loss diets that lack sufficient protein.

When protein intake is insufficient, the body prioritizes essential functions such as tissue repair, digestion, pH balance, water regulation, and hormone production over non-essential functions like hair growth, potentially resulting in hair loss. Deficiencies in specific amino acids, such as histidine, leucine, valine, and cysteine, are often observed in people experiencing hair loss.

A study involving 100 individuals with hair loss found significant deficiencies in histidine and leucine among participants with various types of alopecia, including androgenic alopecia and telogen effluvium (TE). The study also identified common deficiencies in valine and cysteine.

Hair Loss Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Weight loss surgeries, which often result in rapid weight loss, can lead to deficiencies in protein, vitamins, and minerals, subsequently causing hair loss. For instance, a 2018 study involving 50 individuals who underwent sleeve gastrectomy - a procedure removing a large portion of the stomach - reported hair loss in 56% of participants, predominantly among women. Those with hair loss had notably lower levels of zinc and vitamin B12 both pre- and post-surgery.

A 2020 study of 112 women who had undergone sleeve gastrectomy found that 72% experienced hair loss post-surgery. Among these, 79% reported hair loss beginning 3–4 months after surgery and lasting an average of 5.5 months. Weight loss surgeries that reduce stomach capacity or cause food to bypass part of the intestines increase the risk of nutrient malabsorption and deficiencies.

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Hair Loss Due to Restrictive Diets

Restrictive diets that eliminate entire food groups, similar to crash diets, can cause hair loss due to nutrient deficiencies or stress. Deficiencies in iron, zinc, protein, selenium, and essential fatty acids are all associated with hair loss. Very low-calorie diets have also been linked to hair loss. Additionally, the stress associated with restrictive dieting can exacerbate hair loss.

Is Hair Loss Dangerous?

Hair loss itself isn't dangerous, but the underlying causes can be serious. Nutrient deficiencies and extreme calorie restriction, often linked to hair loss after weight loss, can have significant health consequences.

For instance, iron deficiency anemia, which can cause hair loss, may also lead to impaired brain function, infertility, heart conditions, depression, and weakened immune function.

Calorie and protein restrictions can result in decreased muscle function, heart problems, intestinal issues, reduced immune function, and a higher risk of depression.

Other medical conditions, such as autoimmune disorders, can also cause hair loss. Therefore, if you're experiencing hair loss, it's essential to consult a healthcare provider to determine the cause, as it may not be related to weight loss.

Preventing Hair Loss While Losing Weight

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Hair loss during weight loss is often caused by nutrient deficiencies or rapid weight loss. To avoid this, aim for a healthy, sustainable weight loss plan.

Crash and restrictive diets, besides potentially causing hair loss, can harm mental health and are often associated with weight regain. Instead of following a fad diet, choose a balanced diet that provides all the necessary nutrients for optimal body function. Avoid restrictive diets that promise rapid weight loss to protect your physical and mental health and minimize the risk of hair loss.

If you follow a dietary pattern that restricts many foods - such as vegetarian or vegan diets, which might be low in nutrients associated with hair health like iron and zinc - ensure you include nutrient-dense foods and consider supplementing nutrients that your diet lacks.

For those undergoing weight loss surgery, it's crucial to ensure optimal levels of nutrients like zinc, iron, and vitamin B12 before the procedure. Post-surgery, follow your doctor's or dietitian's recommendations on supplementation to prevent hair loss related to nutrient deficiencies.

Facilitating Hair Regrowth

Identifying the cause of hair loss is essential before attempting any treatment. Hair loss can result from various factors, not just rapid weight loss or nutrient deficiencies.

If hair loss is due to nutrient deficiencies, such as low zinc or iron levels, correcting these deficiencies can stop the loss and promote regrowth. If a restrictive or crash diet is the culprit, immediately switch to a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods.

In cases of nutrient deficiency, dietary changes might not be sufficient, and supplements may be necessary. However, supplements are generally beneficial only if there is a nutrient deficiency. If not, they might not help with hair loss.

Consulting a healthcare provider is the best approach to identify the cause of your hair loss and develop a plan for regrowth.

The Bottom Line

Hair loss during or after weight loss can result from various factors, including nutrient deficiencies. However, it's important not to assume that hair loss is solely related to weight loss, as underlying health issues could also be the cause.

Consult a qualified healthcare provider, such as a doctor or registered dietitian, to accurately identify the cause of your hair loss and develop an effective treatment plan to promote hair regrowth.