Hair Loss Is not Your Destiny, Its Your Body Alarm

Many of you may consider hair loss as a natural part of life. But when it starts to become abnormal—like losing more than 100 strands a day—it could be a sign that your body is sending a signal: “I need attention.”

Hair is not just a crown, but also a reflection of what's going on inside the body. Let’s dive deeper into the causes, triggers, and holistic ways to address hair loss.

🔬 Getting to Know DHT: The Hormone That Attacks Hair Follicles

One of the main causes of hair loss is the hormone Dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is formed from testosterone, and when its levels are excessive, it can shrink the size of hair follicles. As a result, hair grows thinner and eventually stops growing.

This condition is known as androgenetic alopecia. It doesn't just occur in men, but also in women—especially those experiencing hormonal imbalances like in the case of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).

🍭 Poor Diet Can Trigger Hair-Loss Hormones

Many people don't realize that excess sugar intake and refined carbohydrates like white bread, instant noodles, or sugary drinks can increase insulin levels. When the body experiences insulin resistance, hormonal chaos occurs, leading to increased production of DHT.

This situation is exacerbated if you have excess fat in the abdominal area (visceral fat), as fat tissue is hormonally active and can disrupt the balance of the endocrine system.

⚠️ Hormonal Imbalance = Disrupted Hair Cycle

Several phases in life, especially in women, cause hormonal fluctuations:

• Pregnancy and post-delivery
• Irregular menstruation
• Menopause
• Hormonal contraceptive use
• Severe stress or sleep disorders

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol greatly influence hair growth. When their balance is disrupted, hair follicles quickly enter the resting phase (telogen) and don't return to the growth phase (anagen).

🥦 Nutrition: The Foundation of Hair Strength from Within

Hair is the fastest growing tissue in the human body, but it is not the body's top priority. This means that if the body is lacking nutrients, the "supply" to hair will be reduced first.

Essential nutrients to prevent hair loss include:

• Protein: Because hair is mostly made of keratin.
• Zinc and Iron: Help supply oxygen and cell regeneration.
• Vitamin D: Stimulates new follicles and helps immune function.
• B-complex vitamins (including Biotin): Supports metabolism and hair health.

🛡️ Holistic Prevention of Hair Loss

Here are concrete steps that you can take:

1. Improve Your Diet: Reduce sugar and ultra-processed foods. Add green vegetables, fatty fish, whole grains, and lean proteins.
2. Manage Stress: Practice relaxation techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, journaling, or meditation.
3. Get Enough and Quality Sleep: Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep in a dark and quiet environment.
4. Care for Your Scalp: Use natural shampoos, avoid hot water, and don't comb your hair when wet. Perform scalp massages with natural oils.
5. Monitor Hormonal Health: If hair loss is accompanied by irregular periods or hormonal acne, consult a doctor.
6. Avoid External Damage: Reduce the use of straighteners, hair dryers, bleaching, and use satin pillowcases.

✨ Healthy Hair Starts with a Balanced Body

Hair loss is often seen as a cosmetic issue, but it is actually a reflection of your internal condition. By recognizing the signals, you can start making improvements from within.

It's not just about changing shampoos, but changing your lifestyle.
The journey to healthy hair requires small daily commitments—from your diet, mindset, to sleep patterns.

📚 Sources:

• Harvard Health Publishing
• Dr. Mark Hyman, Functional Medicine
• Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism
• American Academy of Dermatology