Real Health / Top 5 Causes For Thinning Hair or Hair Loss (And What To Do About It)

Top 5 Causes For Thinning Hair or Hair Loss (And What To Do About It)

August 13, 2024 Dr Livingood

Hair — it’s not just a vital part of our appearance; it’s a reflection of our internal health and well-being.

Today, we’re diving deep into what it takes to retain thick, healthy hair, at any age. This isn’t about the latest styling product or trend — it’s about the core factors behind hair thinning and loss, and how nurturing our body from the inside out can lead to the vibrant, healthy hair we all strive for.

The Root of the Matter: Identifying the Culprits

Hair loss and thinning can be disheartening, affecting not just how we look but how we feel about ourselves. To combat this, we must understand the underlying causes.

I’ve pinpointed the top five culprits of hair troubles and, more importantly, how we can address them.

So, let’s get started!

1. Hormonal Fluctuations

Our hormones play a pivotal role in our overall health, including the condition of our hair. Imbalances, such as excess androgens in men and women, can lead to thinning hair alongside other health issues. These imbalances are often fueled by modern lifestyle factors like synthetic hormones in our food supply and exposure to plastics. The solution? A conscious effort to cleanse our bodies and environments from these disruptors. Opting for hormone-free meats, minimizing plastic use, and exploring natural alternatives to hormonal birth control can be powerful first steps.

2. Nutritional Nourishment: You Are What You Eat

The adage “you are what you eat” holds especially true when it comes to hair health. Nutrients like D-Mannose, abundant in tart cherries and cranberries, offer significant benefits. Yet, the overconsumption of sugars and dairy can sabotage our efforts. By embracing a diet rich in whole foods and considering a liver cleanse to rid our bodies of accumulated toxins, we can create an internal environment that supports lush, vibrant hair.

3. Strengthening from the Core: Pelvic Floor Power

Often overlooked, the strength of our pelvic floor muscles can influence our body’s overall well-being, including hair health. Engaging in targeted exercises to fortify these muscles not only supports bladder function but also enhances blood flow and nutrient delivery throughout the body, including to our scalp.

4. Stress: The Silent Saboteur

Stress is a formidable foe in our quest for healthy hair. Its impact can be profound, triggering conditions like shingles that exacerbate hair loss. Incorporating stress-reducing practices, such as adaptogenic herbs (think ashwagandha and rhodiola) and mindful breathing, can mitigate these effects, fostering a more serene mind and a healthier mane.

5. The Foundation: Nutrient Density

Lastly, the very building blocks of our hair — nutrients like copper, zinc, selenium, and vitamins D and K — are often lacking in our modern diets. Ensuring adequate intake of these essential nutrients, whether through diet or supplementation, is critical for hair strength and vitality.

A Path Forward: Beyond Just Hair

As we peel back the layers of what influences hair health, it becomes clear that the journey to luscious locks is about more than just topical treatments or quick fixes. It’s a holistic endeavor that encompasses our hormonal balance, diet, physical strength, mental well-being, and the very nutrients that fuel our bodies.

For those navigating the challenges of thinning or damaged hair, know that you’re not alone. By adopting a multifaceted approach that addresses these root causes, not only can we reclaim the health of our hair, but we can also embark on a transformative journey toward overall wellness.

Embrace this journey with an open heart and mind, and let the revitalization of your hair be a testament to the profound interconnectedness of our internal health and our external beauty. Here’s to a future where every strand tells a story of resilience, vitality, and the power of holistic care.

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Top 5 Causes For Thinning Hair or Hair Loss (And What To Do About It)