by Being overweight or even obese has a host of side effects on overall health. The World Heart Federation (WHF) reports that more than 2.3 billion children and adults worldwide are believed to be overweight or obese. As a result, it is correct to call obesity an epidemic that can have dire consequences if left untreated. Did you know that obesity and hair loss also have a strong link?
Health Shots contacted Dr. Monica Chahar, Chief Dermatologist and Director of Skin Decor, Dwarka, Delhi, who shares that obese and overweight women are more likely to experience hair health problems such as hair loss. . Ella read on to understand the link between obesity and hair loss.
Can obesity lead to hair loss?
In general, it is known that obesity is linked to an increased risk of several diseases. Obese people are prone to heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems. However, it is not clear exactly how chronic obesity causes the body’s organs to deteriorate and lose functionality.
Researchers at Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU) recently investigated the effects of genetically induced obesity and a high-fat diet on hair thinning and hair loss using mouse model tests. According to the study findings, obesity may cause hair follicle loss by inducing particular inflammatory signals that deplete hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs), blocking hair follicle regeneration and ultimately causing hair follicle loss. .
An expert opinion on the link between obesity and hair loss
Being obese can affect the health of your hair and lead to problems. Dr. Chahar says: “Excess abdominal fat can lead to hormonal imbalances, specifically an increase in the production of androgens, such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Elevated DHT levels can shrink hair follicles, leading to hair thinning and eventually hair loss.”
She further explains that overweight or obese women develop insulin resistance, which can result in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, one of the most common reproductive problems among young women. Additionally, PCOS may be a factor in hair loss because the condition is linked to higher than usual testosterone levels, which have an impact on hair growth.
How to control hair loss?
Here are 5 most important tips to keep in mind to control hair loss:
1. Maintain a balanced diet: A healthy diet plays a crucial role in hair health. Opt for nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Incorporate foods rich in vitamins A, C and E, as well as biotin, proteins, zinc and iron, which promote hair growth and follicle health.
2. Manage stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate hair loss. Be sure to include stress-relieving techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing into your daily schedule.
3. Lose weight: If your hair loss problem is due to being overweight or obese, you need to lose weight to control it. Engaging in regular physical activity not only helps with weight control, but also improves blood circulation, which is vital for delivering nutrients to hair follicles. Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes and you will see the difference.
4. Avoid aggressive hair care practices: Excessive heat styling, tight hairstyles, and harsh chemical treatments can damage the hair shaft and contribute to hair loss. So avoid making these mistakes.
5. Head massage: One of the best strategies to stop hair loss is to give yourself a regular head massage, as it has been shown to stimulate blood circulation. In addition to promoting hair growth, it maintains the health of your hair and helps you deal with stress, which is a major factor in hair loss.
Seek professional help if nothing works!
If hair loss persists or worsens, it is essential to consult a health professional or a dermatologist. They can assess your specific situation, identify underlying causes, and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions, such as medications, topical solutions, or therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections, he says. Dr. Chahar.
