Vegan Diet and Hair Loss: Is there any relation?

16 July, 2019 | Hair Loss | Author : Shveta Virmani

The vegan diet has been gaining momentum as more and more people are moving towards it for ethical, environmental, and health reasons. It abstains people from consuming all animal products including eggs, meat, and dairy products, and mainly focuses on a plant-only diet for nourishment.

While following a vegan diet provides many health benefits such as a trimmer waistline and improved blood sugar levels, it can also increase the risk of nutrient deficiencies which may lead to hair loss, especially during the initial transition phase.

How vegan diet can contribute to hair loss?

Let us now look at some of the key aspects of a vegan diet which can make it a major contributor to hair loss:

1. Lack of protein

Adopting a vegan diet means exclusion of all animal products, including meat, fish and eggs. This transition can lead to a sudden drop in the consumption of protein. As hair is predominantly made up of proteins, this deficit can eventually affect and weaken your hair, resulting in hair loss.

2. Deficiency of nutrients

Going vegan may put you at an increased risk of iron and other vitamin deficiencies. Cutting on whole grains and meat, which are essential for the hair growth cycle, can result in hair loss. Moreover, when your body lacks nutrients, it stops the hair growth cycle to conserve energy for more important body functions.

3. Weight loss

Newly-turned vegans often experience rapid weight loss due to the exclusion of all fattening aspects. This type of weight loss can interrupt the body’s natural processes, eventually leading to hair loss.

How to tackle hair loss worries?

As per the top hair transplant surgeons in India, a well-planned diet with proper nourishment and balanced meals can help you to deal with hair loss caused by a vegan diet effectively. Here’s what you should do to tackle your hair loss worries:

1. Eat protein-rich foods

Protein is the lifeline for your hair, therefore, your diet should include protein-rich foods such as lentils, quinoa, chia seeds, chick peas, and black beans. These foods are also rich in other vitamins that can promote hair growth.

2. Include nutrient-rich foods

Following a vegan diet can deprive you of certain vital nutrients. Therefore, eat foods that are high in nutrients such as carrots and walnuts. Foods like spinach, bok choy, and leafy greens can fulfill your body’s needs for iron. Consuming healthy, nutritious foods is one of the best ways to provide your hair with all the vital nutrients it needs to grow.

3. Supplements

If you’re eliminating animal and dairy products, it is essential to supplement your diet with alternate sources of nutrients and proteins. However, always consult your doctor before taking any supplements.

Though veganism is a healthy choice, it can contribute to hair loss. If you’re experiencing severe hair loss or a receding hairline, consider seeking help from the best hair transplant surgeons at the earliest.