The Myth of Protein's Effect on Hair Loss
, by Genetic Nutrition, 6 min reading time
Hair loss is a subject that often causes speculation and controversies in health and well-being. Regarding its impact on hair health and root strength, protein has received both praise and criticism. It’s not alone in this regard. Other dietary components have also received their share of flak about how they might potentially cause hair loss. However, hair health is impacted by various circumstances and factors, not just food. Anything from hormonal balance and stress to genes and heredity has been scientifically proven as a hair loss cause. Though food, too, has been known to play a role, does protein cause hair loss? That’s the question this blog delves into, exploring the science behind the misconception.
A Protein Powerhouse – Hair
Hair is a complicated biological material that plays an essential role in safeguarding your scalp and managing heat accumulation levels. It is, therefore, more than just an appealing aesthetic. Keratin is the primary protein that comprises hair. Even your nails are made of keratin.
Ensuring you get a sufficient protein intake is vital for optimal hair health because your hair follicles, which are responsible for growing and holding each strand of hair, need a steady supply of protein to ensure strong and long strands. Three essential stages comprise the hair growth cycle: the anagen (development stage), the catagen (transition stage), and the telogen (resting stage). Hair follicles need different supplements, including protein, during their growth cycle to produce strong and healthy hair. Inadequate protein levels in your body can lead to a protein prioritisation for more essential physiological processes. This is when hair loss happens.
Read Also: Biotin For Hair - What You Need To Know
Role of Protein in Hair Loss
One of the longest ongoing myths about protein's interaction with select hormones, generally dihydrotestosterone (DHT), is that it advances hair loss in some capacity. DHT, a chemical from testosterone, has been connected to going bald. This is why more men than women are said to experience balding. This condition is particularly observed among people who are genetically inclined toward androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern hair loss.
As per studies, high DHT levels can make your hair follicles shrink, thereby affecting their growth cycle, which can ultimately make your strands thinner and shorter. It has been said that eating high-protein diets, especially those from animal sources, can raise testosterone levels, which can increase DHT levels and cause hair loss.
The impact of dietary protein on DHT levels varies among people based on attributes like age, hereditary factors, and overall health. However, there is still no adequate research-based confirmation between DHT levels, hair loss, and protein consumption.
Importance of Balanced Diet and Nutrient Diversity
It's vital to choose a balanced diet and nutritional variety not only for general health but also for hair growth. This simple lifestyle shift has helped people reverse any nutrient-lax hair loss issues. Falsely claiming protein is the main or sole reason for hair fall doesn’t help anyone. Any extreme consumption of a supplement, including protein, can agitate your body's fragile biochemical balance and lead to adverse consequences. This is why scientists have established a daily protein intake requirement for supplements as well.
For optimum hair health, a balanced diet rich in nutrients is paramount. To ensure you're getting the supplements your hair needs, incorporate different organic sources like vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet.
Healthy Hair from Within
Despite the fact that protein is fundamental for healthy hair, you need to do a little extra to keep it looking lustrous. You can ensure root strength and hair follicle integrity through a balanced diet containing iron, zinc, biotin, and vitamins A, C, D, and E. These essential nutrients and minerals are indispensable for the development and maintenance of hair. Eight glasses of water a day is also important for hydration, which prevents your strands from becoming dry and fragile. In case of any deficiencies, a medical expert can suggest enhancements like extra iron or biotin, so speak to your dermatologist or healthcare provider before confirming. Implement stress-reduction strategies like yoga or meditation, which can remove any pressure on your internal system. Regular scalp maintenance with safe and natural shampoos can create a favourable environment for optimal hair growth as well.
Read Also: Beauty From Within: How Hydrolyzed Marine Collagen Improves Hair And Nail Health
Conclusion
The myth that protein causes hair fall has been debunked, including in this guide. Healthy hair needs healthy protein to grow. Focus on your overall well-being, maintain a balanced diet with ideal protein intake, and use safe hair care treatments. Medical causes, environmental pressures, and genetic predispositions all play a role in hair loss. See a dermatologist or trichologist (another type of hair loss expert) in the event stress is getting to you and you’re seeing excess hair fall.
Find the best nutrition supplements on Genetic Nutrition to help you maintain great hair health.
FAQs
- Which nutrients are important for hair growth?
Supplements like iron, zinc, biotin, and nutrients A, C, D, and E are significant for hair growth and maintenance. The health of your hair follicles, scalp, and strands is improved through such supplements.
- Does dehydration affect hair health?
For hair to remain hydrated and fight drying, eight glasses of water a day are important. Dry, fragile hair is often a result of a lack of hydration or prolonged exposure to dry conditions.
- Are there any supplements to support hair health?
Prior to starting a new supplement routine, see a specialist to ensure your plan is proper for your needs. Consult with a dermatologist or other expert to see how much iron, protein, and biotin you need each day.
