While it is normal to experience hair shedding (typically around 50 to 100 hairs per day), the hair is a sensitive structure that responds to what is happening internally in the body, and excess hair shedding and thinning is a sign that something is off balance and should be addressed.
There can be various factors that contribute to hair loss such as:
Stress
Stress
Nutritional deficiencies
Thyroid imbalance
Heavy metal toxicity
Drainage pathways backed up
Hair products that are damaging the hair
Thyroid imbalance
Heavy metal toxicity
Drainage pathways backed up
Hair products that are damaging the hair
Stress:
Chronic stress can have a negative impact on our hair and body. Stress depletes us from our mineral stores, which are needed for healthy hair. Being aware of the internal and external stressors that you are being exposed to, focusing on supporting your body’s foundations, (sleep, hydration, mineral support, blood sugar regulation, nutrient-dense diet, rest, and play), and incorporating stress reduction habits into your daily routine will help negate the effects stress can have on the body.
Nutritional deficiencies: Hair is made of a protein called Keratin and we need a proper balance of macronutrients and micronutrients to support healthy hair growth. If we have exposure to a pathogen or chronic stress that is robbing us of nutrients, then deficiencies can start to occur and we can be depleted in certain macronutrients, micronutrients, and essential fatty acids. Minerals such as iron, zinc, and selenium and vitamins such as fat-soluble vitamins, A, E, D & B vitamins are important for healthy hair.
Thyroid imbalance: The thyroid regulates a range of key body functions. It releases hormones that manage metabolism, controlling how quickly and efficiently the cells convert nutrients into energy. Toxins such as chemicals, metals, herbicides, and pesticides, can imbalance the thyroid. Hair loss is one of the symptoms that can result from a thyroid imbalance.
Heavy Metals: Toxic exposure to heavy metals interfere with the proteins in hair formation by preventing them from bonding with each other properly. Heavy metals also disrupt optimal thyroid function and accumulate in the thyroid. Accumulation from heavy metals can pose a threat to human health when we are exposed to higher concentrations. Keep in mind the sourcing, and note if it's organic or inorganic. We are exposed to heavy metals through our water sources, industrial pollution, dental fillings and crowns, food packaging, personal care products, cosmetics, and household products such as paint.
Drainage Pathways: Keeping drainage pathways open and optimal will help the order in which the body moves fluids to remove toxins. If your drainage pathways are backed up and toxins have nowhere to be released, they pile up which could heighten symptoms. Drainage pathways include the colon, liver and bile ducts, lymphatic system, skin, lungs, and kidneys.
Hair care: If you are using hair care products formulated with harsh chemicals and stripping the hair’s natural oils, it can prevent healthy hair growth. Healthy hair starts at the scalp.
Ways to support healthy hair:
- Consume a nutrient-dense diet for internal support and to address any nutritional deficiencies.
- There are various tests that can be run to view your heavy metal status, and nutritional status. Running a full thyroid panel to assess overall function to see if there are any markers out of range. Working with a practitioner to address these issues will be helpful to follow the best order of operations to support your body to improve your health.
- Incorporating a daily stress-reduction practice.
- Using hair care products that are nourishing for the scalp. Our shampoo and conditioner are formulated to repair damage, strengthen hair, and restore hair elasticity.
- Scalp stimulator to use on your head to massage the scalp and increase blood flow.
- Shower water filter to help reduce hard water exposure and improve the appearance of hair.
Disclaimer: This is not medical advice, but for educational purposes only.