Are you one of those people who remain indoors all the time? You prefer not to expose yourself to the sunlight even during sunrise or sunset? Then, Vitamin D deficiency could be the cause of your hair loss!
Yes, vitamins and minerals are vital to maintain good skin and hair health. And, a deficiency of Vitamin D is directly linked to normal hair fall as well as conditions that cause hair loss.
Let’s understand this in detail and how you can deal with it.
Highlights:
Does Vitamin D Deficiency Cause Hair Loss?
Vitamin D deficiency is associated with hair loss according to scientific research. Some studies have suggested that low Vitamin D may also be linked to an autoimmune condition called alopecia areata. Alopecia areata is a condition in which a person loses his/her hair in patches.
It has been suggested that those with the condition tend to have low levels of Vitamin D (1). However, people without alopecia areata may also notice some hair loss due to low levels of Vitamin D (2).
Vitamin D is an important part of your system that stimulates your hair follicles to grow and produce new hair strands. It also prevents your existing hair strands from falling out.
Symptoms Of Vitamin D Deficiency
These symptoms may indicate a lack of Vitamin D deficiency.
- Constant changes in mood
- Fractures
- Loss of bone density
- High blood pressure
- Slow wound-healing capacities
- Weakening of your muscles
- Infertility issues
- Fatigue and constant pain
Note:
Symptoms may keep changing. Getting yourself medically examined is the best way to determine if you have a Vitamin D deficiency.
What Causes Vitamin D Deficiency?
If you’re somebody who doesn’t enjoy soaking-in the morning sun or your diet lacks a good amount of nutrients, you may experience a lack of Vitamin D levels.
Certain medications may contribute to Vitamin D deficiency as well. These include:
If you do notice symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency after starting any of these medications, make it a point to tell your doctor about it.
Other diseases like celiac disease and Crohn’s disease may also cause a lack of Vitamin D as they prevent the absorption of nutrients by the body.
How Can You Reduce Hair Fall Caused By Vitamin D Deficiency?
A lack of Vitamin D can be corrected by taking supplements or by consuming foods rich in Vitamin D.
You can take the supplements after a meal. It is recommended to take your Vitamin D supplements after you have had a meal high in fats like:
- Eggs/cheese
- Avocados
- Chia seeds
- Nuts
- Fish
You should make it a point to visit your doctor regularly to evaluate your Vitamin D levels. Your doctor may recommend supplements that need to be taken everyday, once a week or just once in a month.
If you are experiencing any medical conditions that tend to reduce Vitamin D levels, you should address the condition first. In case you think your Vitamin D levels may have dropped after starting medication, talk to your doctor about it.
You can also try taking in some morning sunlight to increase your Vitamin D levels.
Note:
Make sure you’re avoiding the afternoon sun and in case you go out during peak hours, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to prevent sun damage.
Recommended Dosage Of Vitamin D
The Endocrine Society recommends the following dosage of Vitamin D for various age groups (5):
Adults Between The Ages Of 19-55
600 IU of Vitamin D daily
Anybody Who Is Above The Age Of 55
Between 600-800 IU of Vitamin D daily
For Children
400-600 IU of Vitamin D
*IU is the ‘international unit’ which determines how potent a nutrient is.
How Can You Prevent Hair Fall Caused By Vitamin D Deficiency?
Apart from taking supplements and consuming foods rich in Vitamin D, you can follow these tips to reduce hair fall caused by a lack of Vitamin D.
- Brush your hair gently.
- Avoid tying your hair up too often.
- Use a gentle, mild and natural shampoo and conditioner.
Wrapping Up
Low levels of Vitamin D can result in hair fall. Supplements and foods rich in Vitamin D will help treat the issue. Certain medical conditions and medications may also contribute to a lack of Vitamin D. If your Vitamin D levels are not too low, you can treat it by taking in some sunlight on an everyday basis.
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