Many of us are emotionally attached to our hair. And seeing an increase in shedding can feel alarming. While there are many factors that impact hair loss (including the products you use, water quality, hormones, and stress), so does your diet.
A recent systematic review highlights how specific nutrients and foods1 may help protect your hair or further contribute to hair loss. Here’s what you need to know.
About the study
Researchers conducted a comprehensive review of 17 studies involving over 61,000 participants to explore the relationship between diet, nutrients, and hair health.
These studies included people (and children) with varying hair health: some had more severe hair loss, while others experienced general hair thinning or reduced hair density. And 97% of the participants were women, reflecting the higher prevalence of hair loss concerns. in women compared to men.
Researchers evaluated vitamin and mineral intake, protein, soy, cruciferous vegetables, supplements, and certain beverages to see how each impacted hair density, growth, thickness, shine, and hair loss (in adults and children).