Expert warns of 4 common deficiencies which can lead to hair loss

Hair loss most likely to occur in September – expert explains why

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Trichologist Firat Siksik emphasised the importance that vitamins and minerals play in hair health. In fact, if you are deficient in certain nutrients, hair loss can occur. One of the “most common” deficiencies to be aware of in the UK is vitamin B12. The other three dietary deficiencies to watch out for include: biotin, folate, and iron.

Mr Siksik said: “Iron deficiency in pre-menopausal women is one of the main causes of hair loss that could indicate an underlying medical condition.

“Iron contributes to haemoglobin production, which helps deliver nutrients and oxygen to hair follicles.

“Without enough, hair will have stunted growth, and lead to thinning hair.”

In order to “correct” an iron imbalance, for example, Mr Siksik recommends eating more spinach.

“Spinach is filled with iron which is a great source for hair growth,” he explained.

“Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen through the body which aids growth and repair.

“It is also loaded with beneficial nutrients such as vitamins A and C, and folate.”

While iron is associated with meat, Mr Siksik highlighted high-protein foods you can enjoy instead, such as: lentils, quinoa, and tofu.

These high-protein foods are said to enhance “strong and healthy hair growth”.

As for vitamin B12, which is “used by every cell in the body”, you can find the vitamin in eggs, salmon, and poultry.

Some people, however, may have difficulty with absorbing the vitamin – no matter how many eggs they eat.

“Vitamin B12 deficiency can happen if you have pernicious anaemia, which is when your body is unable to absorb B12 through the foods you eat,” Mr Siksik added.

It’s important to speak to a doctor if you think that you might have a vitamin B12 deficiency.

A simple blood test can help determine whether or not you have acquired the autoimmune condition known as pernicious anaemia.

Without adequate supplies of vitamin B12, not only can hair loss occur, but the nervous system will struggle to function optimally.

Mr Siksik stated: “Biotin is also known as vitamin B7 and vitamin H. It is essential for helping your body convert carbs into energy.

“It helps your body metabolise proteins which are the building blocks for hair.

“As it is water-soluble, it means your body can’t store it, so it needs to be consumed everyday in foods such as yeast, liver, mushrooms and egg yolks.”

In addition to dietary deficiencies, other factors that could contribute to hair loss include stress, medications, and genetics.

Hair specialist Firat Siksik is a trichologist at Sanamentum.

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