A lot of people see their hair as a reflection of their identity, so it isn’t surprising that the global hair products market is worth over $80 billion. What might surprise you is how much your hair can reveal about your health.
Medical researchers from around the world have been just as fascinated with hair as some of the world’s top stylists. Trichology, the branch of dermatology that focuses on the study of the health of hair, has existed for more than 100 years. But scientists are the ones who have uncovered what hair really tells us about our overall health condition.
What Your Hair Reveals About Your Health
If you are experiencing a problem with your hair that goes beyond the occasional “bad hair day,” perhaps, one of the following health issues is the reason.
1. Dehydration
When hair looks dull, dry, and is brittle, it is often a sign that you are not getting enough water. You could be dehydrated or close to it. In some cases, dull-looking hair in women is also accompanied by hot flashes and night sweats, so watch for those signs as well.Preventive measures:
The remedy is as simple as making sure you consume at least 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) a day in the form of beverages and water-rich foods.
2. Too Much Testosterone
Extra weight around the waistline and hair sprouting in places you never had hair before isn’t necessarily a sign of aging. If women notice dark facial hair suddenly appearing on the upper lip or hair thickening on the arms while the waistline is getting wider, it might be a sign of too much of testosterone. Excess fat stores testosterone and stimulates hair follicles that cause hair growth you would normally see in men.Preventive measures:
- Women should only consume six added teaspoons of sugar per day and exercise regularly.
- It is important to keep in mind that the same signs such as unwanted hair growth and irregular periods can be a symptom of a condition called polycystic ovary syndrome. In this case, seek medical attention.
3. Eating the Wrong Foods
Aging changes our hair. It can make it thin, more coarse, dull-looking, and breakable. But if your hair has these features and you are relatively young, you need to take a closer look at your diet. And no matter your age, a healthy diet can help your hair.Preventive measures:
- Nutrient-rich foods like fresh fruit and vegetables are good for your hair.
- Foods that are processed are not so good. Now, don’t go overboard. If you eliminate fat completely from your diet, your hair can become weak and lackluster.
- Foods with omega-3s and monounsaturated fats—like fish and avocados—are the best.
4. Too Much Stress
Both dermatologists and psychiatrists confirm that thinning hair can be brought on by major stress. This could include illness, the death of a loved one, or a period of deep depression. Normally, the hair loss takes place three to six months following the event or stressor. The good news is that the hair will grow back.Preventive measures:
- Get 7.5 to eight hours of sleep a night.
- Perform stress-busting activities.
- Exercise regularly.
5. Not Enough Protein
If you’re noticing that your hair isn’t quite growing, it could be due to lack of protein as your hair requires protein along with other minerals to grow.Preventative measure:
- Eat foods like eggs, shellfish, and wild red meat to get the proper nutrients you need to promote hair growth.
6. Insufficient Iron
If your hair is cracking, thinning, or if you’re losing it, it could be a sign of low iron or even anemia.Preventative measures:
- Eat more meat.
- If you’re vegetarian, take a multivitamin.
So the next time you look in the mirror, take a close look at your hair and scalp. And remember to take good care of your overall health. As the well-known haircare and cosmetics company L'Oreal put it: “Because you’re worth it.”
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Victor Marchione, M.D. has been practicing medicine in New York and New Jersey for more than 20 years. This article was originally published on BelMarraHealth.com. Check out their Facebook page: facebook.com/BelMarra
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