Hair thinning occurs when your hair follicles lose the ability of growing hair back. The common causes for hair thinning is aging and stress. We curated a list of food items that can promote hair growth and reduce hair thinning. Read on to find out!
In this article,I’ll explain which food is good for thinning and what’s bad. I’ll also dive into ways to increase its effectiveness by paying attention to how you eat and exercising.
Keep reading on if you want to know which food is good for hair thinning and how to improve your hair from the inside!
Which Food Is Good For Thinning Hair?
The main nutrients that are good for thinning hair include the following
Here are the nutrients that are good for hair thinning and can promote hair growth.
- Protein
- Iodine
- Vitamins
- Minerals
- Collagen
Now let’s take a look at which food have these nutrients:
#1 — Protein Containing Foods That’s Good For Thinning Hair
Our hair is made up of a protein molecule called Keratin. Consisting of 18 types of amino acids, it is made up of 14-18% amino acid called “cystine’’. This particular amino acid is rarely found in other protein molecules.
Cystine is biosynthesized in the body from an amino acid called methionine. But, methionine is an essential amino acid which cannot be biosynthesized in the body.
So to prevent hair thinning, consuming protein that contains these amino acids is very important. Here are the following protein foods that are good for hair thinning:
- Meat like pork and chicken
- Fish like tuna
- Eggs
#2 — Iodine Containing Foods That Can Reduce Hair Loss
Iodine keeps the thyroid gland functioning normal. And the thyroid glands secrete hormones that are responsible for regulating your metabolism and contribute to the growth of skin and hair. Which makes it clear that iodine is necessary for hair growth. And lack of iodine can easily cause hair loss. In fact according to a study, seaweed
Therefore, it is recommended to eat seaweeds rich in iodine like:
- wakame (seaweed)
- kelp and hijiki
#3 — Vitamins Containing Foods That Promote Hair Growth
Vitamins A and E are said to promote blood circulation, while vitamin B stimulates the metabolism of the scalp. Which is why Vitamin A, Vitamin E and Vitamin B are extremely important for your overall hair health and also good for hair thinning.
Here are the foods that are rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin E and Vitamin B
Vitamin A-rich food that are good for hair thinning:
- Green and yellow vegetables
- Liver
- Eels
Vitamin E-rich food that are good for hair thinning:
- Wheat germ
- Soybeans
- Sesame
- Almonds
- Green and yellow vegetables
And Vitamin B-rich food that are good for hair thinning:
- Green and yellow vegetables
- Fish
- Eggs
- Nuts
- Wheat germ
It’s very important to include green and yellow vegetables in your diet since they contain all the vitamins that are needed for hair growth.
#4 — Minerals Containing Foods Are Extremely Important To Treat Thinning Hair
Zinc, a type of mineral, is essential for the synthesis of keratin, the main component of hair.
Dihydrotestosterone, which is involved in the development of Male Pattern Baldness aka Androgenetic alopecia (AGA), is produced when testosterone is combined with 5-alpha-reductase, which exists in the hair papilla.
Zinc is abundant in:
- Oysters
- Cheese
- Pork
- Liver
- Sesame
- Almonds
#5 — Collagen Containing Foods That Are Good For Hair Thinning
Collagen is said to improve the luster and elasticity of hair. Foods rich in collagen that are good for thinning hair include:
- Potatoes
- Lotus root
- Natto (fermented soybeans)
What Foods Can Cause Hair Thinning and Hair Loss
Foods that may contribute to hair loss include sugar, processed and fried foods, high-glycemic index foods, alcohol, high-mercury fish, and dairy products. However, a well-balanced diet is important for maintaining healthy hair.
Type of foods that cause hair thinning are:
- Foods high in sugar
- Foods high in salt
- Foods high in animal fat
- Stimulating foods that cause sweating
#1 — Too Much Sugar Can Cause Hair Thinning
Sweets and juices contain large amounts of sugar. Excessive intake of sugar is said to cause excessive sebum secretion, which clogs pores and makes dandruff more likely to appear.
The appearance of too much dandruff is a sign that the scalp environment is deteriorating, and if left unchecked, may lead to thinning of hair. If you suffer from thinning hair, reduce your intake of sugar immediately.
#2 — Excessive Salt Intake Can Cause Hair Loss
High salt intake may cause high blood pressure and impaired kidney function. It also reduces blood circulation because of which the hair follicles may not receive enough nutrients.
For example, ramen noodles contain a lot of salt, so it is advisable to eat only the noodles as much as possible and not to drink up too much of the soup.
#3 — High intake of Animal Fat Can Lead To Hair Thinning
Excessive intake of animal fat can increase sebum secretion, which may cause seborrheic hair loss. For example, a fatty steak contains a lot of animal fat, so make sure you don’t make that a part of your regular diet.
#4 — Stimulating foods that cause sweating
Be careful with foods that cause sweating and are highly stimulating, such as very hot ethnic foods. They increase sebum secretion, which can easily clog pores, and stimulate the sympathetic nervous system. This disturbs the autonomic nervous system and affects blood circulation.
Your Eating Habits and Frequency of Meals Are Also Important To Prevent Hair Thinning
The way you eat is also important to prevent thinning hair. For example, if you eat just before bed, blood is concentrated in the stomach for digestion, and the scalp does not receive the full benefit of growth hormones secreted during sleep.
So make sure that you don’t have much food just before going to bed.
If you go to bed at around 10PM make sure you eat by 7PM – 8PM. This will give your body enough time to digest the food before you hit the sack!
Also, even if your diet contains protein, choose foods that are more conducive to thinning hair, such as low-fat fish for the main dish rather than fatty steak
Exercise Regularly Is Also Important To Reduce Hair Thinning
Exercising increases metabolism, facilitates digestion, elimination, and other bodily functions, and helps the body utilize nutrients more efficiently.
Light exercise such as walking, jogging, and stretching is recommended as it improves the function of the internal organs.
Exercise also releases serotonin and endorphins, which relieve stress and reduce autonomic nervous system and hormone imbalance.
Along with the Right Diet, Using The Right Hair Growth Products Can Also Help Reduce Hair Thinning
It is of course important to pay attention to one’s diet as a measure against thinning hair. We recommend using these hair loss products that can help promote hair growth and reduce hair thinning.
What can I drink for thinning hair?
There are several drinks that may help promote hair growth and prevent hair thinning, including:
- Water: Staying hydrated is important for maintaining healthy hair, so drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Green tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and may help reduce hair loss and promote hair growth.
- Coconut water: Coconut water is rich in potassium and electrolytes, which can help improve circulation and promote healthy hair growth.
- Carrot juice: Carrot juice is rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and helps promote healthy hair growth.
- Aloe vera juice: Aloe vera contains enzymes that can help promote healthy hair growth and reduce hair loss.
- Beetroot juice: Beetroot juice is rich in iron, which is essential for healthy hair growth.
It’s important to note that while these drinks may help promote healthy hair, they should not be used as a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle.
What is the best vitamin for thinning hair?
There are several vitamins and minerals that are important for maintaining healthy hair and preventing hair thinning, including:
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is important for healthy hair growth and can help prevent hair thinning.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D is important for hair follicle cycling and can help improve hair density.
- Iron: Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss, so it’s important to ensure adequate iron intake.
- Zinc: Zinc helps maintain healthy hair and can help prevent hair loss.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is important for collagen production, which is essential for healthy hair growth.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help improve circulation and promote healthy hair growth.
It’s important to note that taking excessive amounts of vitamins and minerals can have negative health effects, and it’s best to get these nutrients through a balanced diet or a multivitamin supplement. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplements, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Can hair thinning stop naturally?
In some cases, hair thinning can stop naturally without intervention. For example, if hair thinning is due to a temporary condition such as stress, illness, or hormonal changes, the hair may grow back on its own once the underlying cause is addressed.
However, if hair thinning is due to genetic factors such as androgenetic alopecia, it is unlikely to stop naturally without treatment. In such cases, it’s important to seek medical advice to determine the cause of hair thinning and discuss appropriate treatment options.
Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle can help promote healthy hair growth and prevent further hair thinning. Eating a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals, staying hydrated, and managing stress can all contribute to healthy hair growth.
Can hair thinning be cured?
The treatment for hair thinning depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, hair thinning can be cured or reversed through appropriate treatment. For example:
- Androgenetic alopecia: Medications such as minoxidil and finasteride may help slow or stop hair loss and promote new hair growth.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Hair thinning caused by nutritional deficiencies can be treated by addressing the deficiency and ensuring adequate intake of the necessary vitamins and minerals.
- Hormonal imbalances: Hormonal imbalances such as thyroid disorders can be treated with medication.
- Scalp conditions: Scalp conditions such as dandruff, psoriasis, or fungal infections can be treated with medicated shampoos or topical treatments.
However, in some cases, hair thinning may not be curable, especially if it is due to genetic factors such as androgenetic alopecia. In such cases, treatments may help slow down or prevent further hair loss, but they may not be able to restore the hair to its original thickness.
Can thin hair get thick again?
In some cases, thin hair can get thicker again with appropriate treatment. However, it’s important to note that hair thickness can depend on a variety of factors, including genetics, age, and overall health.
If hair thinning is caused by temporary factors such as stress, illness, or hormonal changes, the hair may naturally grow back thicker once the underlying cause is addressed. Additionally, appropriate treatment for underlying medical conditions, such as thyroid disorders or scalp conditions, may help improve hair thickness.
However, if hair thinning is due to genetic factors such as androgenetic alopecia, it may be more difficult to increase hair thickness. While medications and other treatments may help slow down or prevent further hair loss, they may not be able to restore hair to its original thickness.
What fruit is good for thinning hair?
There are several fruits that are good for thinning hair, including:
- Berries: Berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which can help promote healthy hair growth.
- Avocado: Avocado is rich in healthy fats and vitamin E, which can help nourish the scalp and promote healthy hair growth.
- Kiwi: Kiwi is rich in vitamin C, which is important for collagen production and can help strengthen hair.
- Mango: Mango is rich in vitamins A and C, which can help promote healthy hair growth.
- Pineapple: Pineapple is rich in vitamin C and the enzyme bromelain, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy hair growth.
- Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons are rich in vitamin C, which is important for collagen production and can help strengthen hair.
In addition to incorporating these fruits into your diet, it’s important to eat a well-balanced diet that includes plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals to support healthy hair growth.
These hair growth products will also help you in maintaining a healthy scalp environment that’s very important for hair growth!