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Veganism Can Cause Hair Loss
by Jane Meggitt
More and more people – especially women – are turning to veganism. That’s a diet abstaining from any animal products. While vegans may have a sincere desire to end what they see as animal exploitation along with a desire to help the environment, a diet free of animal products can negatively affect the human body. One side effect of veganism is an increase in hair loss and balding among young women.
Telogen Effluvium
The type of hair loss particularly affecting vegans is known as telogen effluvium. In most cases, telogen effluvium does not cause bald patches per se, but hair loss becomes widespread on the scalp. It is generally a reaction to stress, but can also occur due to:
- Pregnancy
- Short or long-term illness
- Certain medications, such as anticoagulants
- Sudden weight loss
- Diet
It’s that last indication causing hair loss among vegans, resulting from a lack of sufficient protein. The body is built for survival, and considers hair a non-essential element. If the body doesn’t receive enough protein, it signals the non-essential components to stop growing. That’s hair.
Protein and Hair Health
Healthy hair requires protein, which also contains amino acids. Vegans don’t consume eggs or fish, both good sources of essential amino acids. The body does not make these essential amino acids, so they must be obtained from nutrients eaten on a daily basis. While vegans can obtain protein from legumes or grains, it requires eating an enormous amount of food from those sources to receive the same amount of protein found in a serving of eggs or fish, and most vegans simply aren’t going to eat that much.
How Vegans Can Restore Their Hair
If eating animal products is out, there are ways vegans can use supplements to ensure they receive sufficient protein to keep their hair from falling out. Since vitamin B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products, it is important to take it in supplement form. Iron deficiency is also common in vegans, no matter how much kale and other leafy greens they consume. These sources simply do not contain as much iron as those from animal products, and the body does not absorb this type of iron as well. For best results, vegans should consult a nutritionist who can provide them with a vegan diet plan and recommend the necessary supplements to keep them in good health.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about hair loss and how to treat it, please feel free to schedule a consultation or contact one of our representatives today!
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