Nutritional factors and hair loss

Hair follicles require energy and protein, along with several micronutrients, to move through their growth cycle. Low intake may follow dieting, food insecurity, nausea, dental problems, or a condition affecting digestion. Shedding after this type of disruption may resemble telogen effluvium.

A nutritional factor is not the only explanation. Inherited pattern loss, alopecia areata, scalp ringworm, and traction from repeated pulling can produce hair loss even when meals are balanced. Patch shape and scalp findings are useful clues.

Review your usual meals rather than chasing a single “hair food.” Include protein at meals and a broad range of plant and animal foods that fit your preferences and health needs. Tell your clinician about vegan or restrictive diets, digestive symptoms, recent illness, and every supplement. Testing should guide replacement when deficiency is suspected; more is not necessarily better.

Arrange a review when loss is persistent, sudden, patchy, or accompanied by itching, scale, soreness, or broken hairs. Seek prompt care if hair loss appears with severe fatigue, dizziness, unexplained weight change, or other concerning symptoms. A clinician can separate nutritional contributors from scalp and follicle disorders.

Could my diet or absorption history contribute to this loss? Which tests would clarify that? What treatment is appropriate if nutrition is adequate but shedding continues?