Vegans have different reasons for going green, and healthy living is a prominent one. By only consuming mineral and vitamin-rich fruit and vegetables, it decreases the risk of severe diseases such as colon cancer. It also potentially lowers cholesterol levels in one’s body by avoiding red meat and dairy high in saturated fat. It also induces weight loss, consequently minimizing chances of heart diseases and diabetes. However, some lapses have been attributed to the vegan diet like hair loss.
What causes hair loss? Pinpointing the exact reason for hair loss can be a challenge. Several factors can affect your hair health and here are some of the common causes of its deterioration:
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Hereditary
Sometimes, inherited genes could be a cause of hair loss, affecting both sexes equally. This pattern of hair loss is called androgenic alopecia. The latter causes your follicles to shrink and halt the growth of hair. This could start at any point in your life, but it commonly surfaces later on.
Age
Another natural cause is aging. As you grow old, your hair growth also slows down. Strands on the scalp thin until they are not able to re-grow. In addition, the hair also loses color causing it to become gray.
Health Disturbance
Certain processes related to health deterioration could also weaken your hair. Recovering from a severe ailment or an operation may cause more hair fall than usual. Some medications may also cause this phenomenon with cancer treatment as a prominent example. This is not limited to physical health. Hair loss can occur during a stressful time in your life.
Haircare
Excessive treatments done on your hair can damage it in the long run. After a while, the damage can eventually lead to hair loss. Even simple hairstyles can affect your hair health. If your hair is constantly tied and pulled back, this can cause permanent hair loss. After the latter, regrowth is nearly impossible thus you should look out for your hair as early as now.
Nutrition
Nutritional deficiency is also another potential cause. Weight loss and lack of protein, iron, and relevant vitamins can lead to hair loss. Your body will reduce hair growth to allot energy for other body functions.
Does veganism cause hair loss? Recent studies and cases have shown a correlation between veganism and hair losses. The usual source of protein is dairy and animal products. The hair itself is composed of a chain of proteins; hence the sudden drop of protein intake can potentially affect and weaken your hair.
However, hair shedding usually only happens during the transition when your hair follicles go through a withdrawal state. For most people, hair growth will go back to its normal state after the first couple of months once your body has adjusted. Another possible reason is not consuming the proper nutrients. Even if you have leaned into a vegan diet, your body still requires the same nutritional components.
How can this be prevented? Going vegan in itself can be a challenge. And if there are ways to make this transition more bearable, surely there are ways to prevent its hair loss risk. You can avoid a sudden drop in weight by gradually easing to the vegan lifestyle. It’s suggested to not lose more than two pounds per week. A way of supporting your nutritional needs is taking supplements. Here is a list of vegan omega 3 supplements from Vegan Liftz that will bridge your protein needs.
The best way, however, to maintain healthy hair is a well-balanced diet complete with the right nourishment. You have to consume plant-based food containing nutrients you used to have from animal products.
Vegan foods for healthy hair
Fruits
Avocados are known to be good for your health, and this also applies to your hair. Its healthy fats stimulate moisture that makes your hair stronger. Another fruit that nurtures the hair and scalp is acai berry. It’s rich in omega 3 fatty acids that inhibit dryness and brittleness. It’s also known to contain high levels of B vitamins and antioxidants. Another fruit recommended for pleasant hair and skin is cucumber. It has mineral silica that improves the collagen in the body.
Seeds and nuts
Chia seeds are a great source of B vitamins, iron, calcium, and protein that your hair needs. Hemp seeds also provide a variety of vitamins and a healthy amount of fatty acids. Sprinkle these on your oats or blend it with your smoothie, and your hair will have its protein supply.
Nuts are also an effective way of nourishment. Almonds contain high levels of magnesium and vitamin E that nurtures the scalp. Walnuts are also the only nut to provide omega 3 fatty acids. Three pieces or 6 halves will get your hair the nourishment boost it needs.
Vegetables
Leafy vegetables are a must-have for every vegan and beneficial to your hair. For instance, kale is rich in iron and B vitamins, and its alkalinity prevents acidity that causes hair and nail weakness. Throw in some kale leaves on your salad, or munch them as chips. Another great vegetable is spinach. It is filled with vitamins and minerals beneficial to your hair, such as vitamin A, C, iron, and folate.
Cacao
Cacao is known for its cosmetic purposes, and likewise, it fortifies your hair. It contains iron, protein, zinc, magnesium, and most significantly sulfur. Sulfur helps revitalize hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth. Do not confuse it with cocoa, however, since you are to use raw cacao powder.
Are there positive hair benefits from a vegan diet? Contrary to popular belief, going vegan is healthy for your hair. The surge in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in your body makes way for healthier and stronger hair quality. The actual link to hair shedding is inadequate nutrition. So, just be sure to have the proper nourishment in your diet through plant-based products. Apart from your diet, there are also other natural ways of growing healthy luscious hair. When you switch to products with significantly natural formulation, it can lessen the frizz and bring back that healthy sheen to your hair.
