What Your Hair Says About Your Health

By Dr. Madelyn Fernstrom


Did you ever stop to think about the connection between your hair and your health? Sure, we all get a positive sense of well-being with a good cut, a color we prefer, or the fact that we have a pretty full head of hair! But here?s a health fact to consider: thinning hair can be a symptom of a lifestyle or medical problem. (It?s not usually the cause for the often-observed male-pattern baldness, with a gradually receding hairline.)

With extreme dieting that includes both calorie and protein restrictions, hair can thin dramatically. A protein-deficient diet is often directly reflected in thinning hair. And a poor quality diet ? enough calories, but low in vitamins and minerals ? can also be a problem.

Poor stress management is another reason you might be losing your locks. Some of this is hormonally based, as well as the nervous habit of absently twisting and pulling on hair, resulting in loss.

Medical conditions can be related to thinning hair. A major observation of untreated thyroid disease is thinning hair. And some autoimmune conditions, like lupus, produce hair loss.

While these are all reasons for hair loss, here are some myths that do not cause hair loss: too much brushing, shampooing too frequently, or wearing hats.

With a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, heart-healthy fats, whole grains and lean protein (sound familiar?), you?ll find that your hair is healthier too! And keep track of your hair health, as significant change might be an issue to address with your doctor.