Understanding the Link Between Weight Loss and Hair Loss: Exploring the Connection”

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Introduction: In the pursuit of a healthier lifestyle, many individuals embark on weight loss journeys, often unaware of the potential side effects beyond shedding pounds. One such consequence that may catch them off guard is hair loss. While weight loss can bring about numerous benefits, it’s essential to recognize and understand the correlation between shedding excess weight and losing hair.

Exploring the Connection: Weight loss-induced hair loss, medically termed as telogen effluvium, occurs when the body experiences significant stress or changes, leading to an increased shedding of hair. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

1. Nutritional Deficiency: Rapid weight loss often involves cutting calories and restricting certain food groups, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies. Inadequate intake of essential nutrients like iron, protein, zinc, and biotin can disrupt the hair growth cycle, resulting in hair thinning or loss.
2. Hormonal Imbalance: Drastic changes in weight can disrupt hormonal balance within the body. Hormones play a crucial role in regulating hair growth, and imbalances, such as elevated cortisol levels due to stress from dieting, can contribute to hair shedding.
3. Reduced Caloric Intake: Severely restricting calories can signal to the body that it’s in a state of famine, prompting it to conserve energy by prioritizing essential functions over non-essential ones like hair growth. As a result, hair follicles may enter the resting phase prematurely, leading to increased shedding.