Diet for hair fall and growth

Hair-producing follicles need adequate energy, protein and micronutrients. Undereating, rapid weight change, a limited diet or poor absorption may contribute to shedding. Hair fall can also reflect telogen effluvium, alopecia areata, scalp ringworm, traction alopecia, male pattern hair loss or female pattern hair loss. The pattern and timing of loss help distinguish these possibilities; diet is only one part of the picture.

Include a reliable protein source at meals, along with vegetables, fruit, whole grains and healthy fats. If you avoid animal foods or several food groups, plan substitutions with a qualified clinician or dietitian. Do not start high-dose hair supplements without checking whether a deficiency exists. Gentle handling, avoiding tight styles and treating scalp irritation can protect the hair you have while the cause is assessed.

Book a review for sudden shedding, clearly defined bald patches, scalp pain, scale, broken hairs, eyebrow loss or hair loss with fatigue or other body changes. Urgent care is appropriate for facial swelling, breathing difficulty or a severe reaction after a supplement or food. A clinician may examine the scalp and tailor tests or treatment to the pattern.

Does my pattern suggest a nutritional issue or a follicle condition? Which tests are useful before taking supplements? Could a medication, recent illness or tight hairstyle be contributing?