Hair Loss from Weight Loss

Hair loss can occur as a result of significant weight loss, and it’s a relatively common experience. Here’s how weight loss can contribute to hair loss:

1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Rapid or extreme weight loss can lead to nutritional deficiencies, particularly if the diet is not well-balanced or if certain food groups are restricted. Deficiencies in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins can affect the health of the hair follicles and lead to hair thinning or loss.
2. Caloric Restriction: Severely restricting calorie intake can place stress on the body, which may affect the hair growth cycle. The body may prioritize the allocation of nutrients to essential functions over non-essential ones like hair growth, leading to temporary hair shedding.
3. Hormonal Changes: Weight loss, especially rapid weight loss, can lead to hormonal fluctuations in the body. Changes in hormone levels can disrupt the hair growth cycle and contribute to hair loss.
4. Stress: Weight loss efforts, particularly if they involve strict dieting or intense exercise, can be physically and emotionally stressful. Stress is a common trigger for hair loss, and the stress associated with weight loss efforts can contribute to hair shedding.
5. Telogen Effluvium: This is a condition characterized by excessive shedding of hair from all over the scalp, typically occurring two to four months after a triggering event such as significant weight loss. It’s thought to be a response to the body’s stress or shock from the weight loss process, and it’s usually temporary.