Hair loss could be reduced by eating a protein-rich diet says expert
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Losing 50 to 100 hairs per day is normal, whether in the shower or while brushing. But if you’re noticing more than usual, there’s a chance you are experiencing hair loss that might get worse over time. Although in some cases hair loss can be genetic, there are steps we can take to minimise the impact.
With this in mind, Doctor Sandy Skotnicki – dermatology advisor at Hims – spoke exclusively with Express.co.uk about the best ways to protect your hair.
She said: “If the thought of hairline thinning is of concern, do not panic – you can take steps to strengthen your hair or treat hair loss.
“It’s critical to learn the most common signs of baldness, so you can take action as soon as possible to avoid it happening further.”
One way to prevent hair loss, she said, is through diet.
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Specifically upping your protein intake could have benefits.
“Eating a diet rich in protein sources such as poultry and fish is vital,” Dr Skotnicki said.
“Your hair is made up of protein filaments called keratin, which makes protein an essential part of your hair-healthy diet.”
This was backed by a study published in Biotechnology Reports in 2018.
As part of the research, a type of keratin was applied to hair to record whether it could repair human hair.
The study said: “K31, a type I acidic keratin, is a major protein of human hair keratin complex and it is essential for maintaining the hair tensile strength.
“The refolded and partially purified K31 protein, when applied on chemically damaged hairs, increased the diameter of the hair up to 49 percent.
“The mechanical strength of the bleached hair increased by almost two-fold after a single treatment of K31.
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“Application of K31 resulted in marked improvements in smoothness, diameter and mechanical strength of the damaged hair.”
Dr Skotnicki also recommended upping your intake of certain vitamins to boost hair health.
She said: “Other nutrients such as vitamins and minerals can play a crucial role in maintaining a good level of hair density such as zinc, vitamin C, E and biotin, which is a form of vitamin B7 that often lacks in people suffering hair loss.
“Low vitamin D has now been associated with male pattern baldness.
“Finally, low iron levels, in particular in women, can cause a prolonged hair shed. “
Avoiding stress is also key, she said. “Stress triggers telogen effluvium, which is diffused hair thinning across your entire scalp,” Dr Skotnicki added.
“Try to assess the cause of the trigger of stress in your life and make note of how it’s making you feel and how your body responds.
“Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation and breathing exercises can not only relieve stress but also boost mood, which can result in reducing the production of stress hormone cortisol and increasing production of mood-boosting hormones.”
