Brenda Khan
While there is no evidence that hair loss is a direct side effect of diet pills, it has been reported in some people using these medications. Extreme weight loss, whether through diet pills or lifestyle changes, can cause temporary hair loss, as the body prioritises essential functions over hair growth. This type of hair loss is called telogen effluvium and is usually reversible. It is important to note that nutrient deficiencies, which can occur during weight loss, can also contribute to hair loss. Therefore, it is crucial to maintain a healthy and balanced diet to provide the body with the necessary nutrients for hair health, such as protein, zinc, iron, and vitamins. Consulting a healthcare professional is advised to address any concerns regarding hair loss and to ensure safe and effective weight loss methods.
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What You'll Learn
Weight loss medications and hair loss
Weight loss is a common goal for many people, and there are various medications available to help achieve this. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of these medications, including hair loss. While hair loss may not be a direct result of the medication itself, it can be an indirect consequence of rapid weight loss, also known as telogen effluvium. This phenomenon occurs because the body prioritises essential functions over non-essential ones like hair growth during stressful events, such as rapid weight loss.
Several weight loss medications have been associated with hair loss, although it is not always a common side effect. For instance, Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, which are used to control blood glucose levels in type 2 diabetes patients, have been linked to hair loss in some individuals. In Wegovy studies, 3% of adults experienced hair loss, while 4% of children aged 12 and older reported the same issue. However, these percentages are still relatively low, and the hair loss was not considered a common side effect by the manufacturer.
Another factor contributing to hair loss during weight loss could be nutrient deficiencies. A well-balanced diet is crucial for maintaining overall health, including hair health. Restrictive diets or extreme weight loss programmes can lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients like protein, zinc, iron, folic acid, and vitamins B, B7, and B12. These deficiencies can then manifest as hair loss. Therefore, it is important to ensure adequate nutrient intake while pursuing weight loss to mitigate this risk.
Additionally, some medications may trigger hormone imbalances, leading to hair loss. For example, birth control pills and hormone replacement therapies (HRT) containing progesterone and estrogen can cause hair thinning and, in some cases, female pattern baldness. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may also lead to male pattern baldness. It is worth noting that discontinuing the medication may not always result in hair regrowth, and it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before making any changes to your treatment plan.
While hair loss due to weight loss medications or dietary changes may not be permanent, it is essential to address it promptly. Consulting a healthcare professional is the first step, as they can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments or modifications to your medication or diet. They may suggest incorporating lean protein sources, like chicken or white fish, into your diet or recommend supplements like biotin capsules to address specific nutrient deficiencies contributing to hair loss.
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Nutritional deficiencies and hair loss
Nutritional deficiencies can indeed lead to hair loss. Caloric, iron, and protein deficiencies are among the most common nutritional triggers for unhealthy hair. Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency in the world and is associated with hair loss. Vitamin C is necessary to absorb iron from your diet, and vitamin C supplements can help with hair loss in people with iron deficiency.
Vitamin B is important for overall hair health and preventing hair loss and thinning. Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair. If you are deficient in vitamin B6, your hair may start to thin or fall out more than usual. Consuming vitamin B6-rich foods like poultry, potatoes, bananas, and nuts can help restore levels.
Vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (folate), vitamin B7 (biotin), and vitamin B12 may also be beneficial for hair loss, but the evidence is conflicting. Excessive intake of certain vitamins or minerals can be harmful and even lead to increased hair loss. For example, excessive vitamin A or selenium can cause hair loss, and excessive vitamin A or iron intake is toxic.
A healthy, balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, pulses, beans, proteins, and healthy fats can help support overall hair health by providing the vitamins and nutrients your hair needs.
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Crash dieting and hair loss
Crash dieting is a common method used by many to lose weight quickly. However, what many people do not realise is that crash dieting can lead to significant hair loss. According to prominent hair loss expert Dr. Alan J. Bauman, crash dieting for weight loss can result in sudden, dramatic hair loss that can take up to a year or longer to correct.
Hair loss due to crash dieting is termed telogen effluvium, which is caused by nutrient deficiencies and stress. Restrictive diets that cut out entire food groups can lead to a lack of essential vitamins and nutrients, such as iron, zinc, protein, selenium, and essential fatty acids, all of which are crucial for hair growth. Additionally, the stress that the body undergoes during dieting can also contribute to hair loss.
The first signs of hair loss usually occur about three to four months after starting the restrictive diet or experiencing rapid weight loss. The hair loss can continue for up to five to six months, and in some cases, it may even be permanent. It is important to note that hair loss may not stop immediately after ending the diet, as it takes time for the body to stabilise and for the hair follicles to return to normal.
To prevent and treat hair loss caused by crash dieting, it is crucial to address any nutrient deficiencies and manage stress levels. This can be done by adopting a balanced diet rich in nutrient-dense foods, such as nuts, eggs, spinach, cashews, and legumes, which provide the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals for hair health. In some cases, supplements may be necessary to correct nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle and consulting with a healthcare professional or dermatologist can help address any underlying issues and provide personalised advice.
Overall, while crash dieting may lead to short-term weight loss, it can have detrimental effects on hair health. It is important to prioritise a balanced and nutritious diet to support both physical health and hair growth.
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Hair loss from extreme dieting
Hair loss is a common side effect of extreme dieting, also known as crash dieting. This type of dieting involves rapid weight loss, which can put stress on the body and lead to nutrient deficiencies. The link between crash dieting and hair loss has been documented in research as far back as the 1970s.
When the body undergoes rapid weight loss, it experiences stress, and this can trigger hair follicles to stop growing and enter the catagen phase prematurely. The catagen phase is a short transitional phase of a few weeks, after which the hair enters the telogen phase, where it rests for 3-4 months before falling out to make way for new hair growth. However, during periods of extreme stress, such as crash dieting, the hair can be forced into the catagen phase too early, resulting in excessive hair shedding and hair loss, known as telogen effluvium.
Telogen effluvium typically occurs about 3-4 months after the initial weight loss and can last for up to 6 months. It is characterised by a disruption in the normal hair growth cycle, leading to increased hair shedding. This condition is usually the result of nutrient deficiencies that arise from severely restrictive dieting or weight loss surgery. Nutrients that are commonly lacking in restrictive diets and can contribute to hair loss include iron, zinc, fatty acids, selenium, vitamin D, and protein.
To treat telogen effluvium caused by extreme dieting, it is essential to address the underlying nutrient deficiencies. A doctor may recommend adjusting the diet to include foods rich in iron, zinc, and other essential nutrients. Maintaining a balanced diet that provides adequate calories and nutrients is crucial for promoting healthy hair growth and preventing further hair loss.
While hair loss from extreme dieting is often temporary and reversible, it can sometimes lead to long-term or even permanent hair loss, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition to hair thinning. Therefore, it is important to seek advice from a healthcare professional if you experience hair loss during extreme dieting. They can help assess the risks, track the progress of hair loss, and prescribe an appropriate course of treatment if necessary.
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Vitamins and hair loss
While hair loss is often associated with ageing, chemotherapy, and certain medications, dietary habits can also significantly impact hair health. Caloric, iron, and protein deficiencies are among the most common nutritional triggers for unhealthy hair, while vitamins, especially vitamin B, are important to the overall health of your hair and preventing hair loss and thinning.
Vitamin D deficiency is directly related to keratinocytes, a type of cell crucial to hair growth. Vitamin D supports healthy bones, the immune system, and regulates cell growth and division. It is recommended to consume vitamin D-rich foods such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods to prevent vitamin D deficiency. Doctors may also recommend taking a vitamin D supplement.
Iron deficiency is another common cause of hair loss, especially among vegans and women with heavy periods. Iron is responsible for carrying oxygen to hair follicles, and iron supplements may be recommended if you have hair loss and iron deficiency. Vitamin C is necessary to absorb iron from your diet, so supplements can help if you have an iron deficiency and hair loss.
Vitamin B12 is also important for DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and nerve function, and it helps the body convert food into energy and supports healthy hair growth.
While vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (folate), and vitamin B7 (biotin) have been suggested as beneficial for hair loss, there is conflicting scientific evidence supporting their efficacy.
In addition, extreme diets can lead to significant hair loss, which can take up to a year or longer to correct.
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Frequently asked questions
Diet pills are associated with hair loss, but this is usually due to rapid weight loss, not the medication itself.
Medications that are associated with hair loss include:
- Antidepressants
- Anticonvulsants
- Arthritis medications
- Birth control pills
- Oral retinoids
- Blood thinners
- Antifungal medications
- Anticoagulants
Common nutritional deficiencies that can cause hair loss include:
- Iron
- Zinc
- Folic acid
- Vitamin B12
- Vitamin D
- Protein
Signs of hair loss include:
- Hair thinning or shedding on your pillow or in the shower
- Hair breakage
- Bald patches
To prevent hair loss, it is recommended to:
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet with the right amounts of macro and micronutrients
- Incorporate foods with zinc, such as meat and cheese
- Ensure you are getting enough lean protein, such as chicken without the skin and white fish
- Avoid harsh chemical additives or rough styling tools for your hair
