Hair loss, also known as male/female pattern baldness (Androgenic alopecia), has no cure but there are ways to stimulate hair growth. Talking with Express, Dr. Deborah Lee of Dr. Fox Online Pharmacy discussed some of the lifestyle changes that can be done to improve hair growth.
About 50% of men report hair loss by the age of 50, which causes their self-esteem and confidence to fall. Both male and female hair loss could result in significant psychological effects, dubbed as the 'cancer of the spirit.'
According to Dr. Lee, it is a good idea to try and do all anyone can to support hair growth and prevent further hair loss. But like a number of diseases, prevention is always better than cure. So, here are five lifestyle changes to start making today to stimulate hair growth.
Eat a Balanced Diet
Start with the basic lifestyle change to make. That is by eating a balanced diet if you are not eating healthy. Dr. Lee recommends eating a complete diet that is rich in antioxidants that are closely associated with aging, therefore also related to reducing hair loss.
Foods rich in antioxidants include broccoli, dark chocolate, pecans, spinach artichokes, goji berries, blueberries, kale, raspberries, and many others.
Take Multivitamins
A review in Dermatology and Therapy showed that the role of vitamins and minerals in preventing hair loss remains unclear. But vitamin deficiency has been identified as a risk factor for hair loss.
Dr. Lee noted that having low levels of vitamins B, D, and iron could lead to weak hair and hair loss. Food sources rich in these vitamins and minerals could help prevent loss, according to some studies.
Medical News Today reported that some vitamins and minerals that may help include selenium, zinc, iron, vitamins A, B, C, D, and E. But experts advise that those planning to take multivitamins should talk to their doctors first for the best products that contain all or most of these vitamins and minerals.
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Exercise Regularly
NHS recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intense exercise a week, or an equivalent of 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity workout a week, Express reported.
Exercise could include simple tasks, such as cleaning, or training to run a marathon. Dr. Lee said that exercise helps combat stress, which could worsen hair loss. Also, exercise could improve blood circulation.
Reduce Alcohol Intake and Stop Smoking
Dr. Lee said that alcohol does not directly cause hair loss but heavy drinking could lead to poor general nutrition and prevents proper absorption of nutrients in the gut. In turn, this could adversely affect hair health and growth.
So, if you are looking for reducing your chances of becoming bald considering to limiting or reducing your alcohol intake could go a long way.
Also, smoking is not advised as it could cause other health problems that could lead to hair loss. Dr. Lee said, the hair of a smoker tends to be more tender, brittle and makes the hair turns gray.
Take Good Care of Your Hair
Last but the least, taking good of your hair plays a significant role in promoting hair growth. Avoid using harsh colorants, dyes, and other hair chemicals as it could damage your hair.
Dr. Lee recommends using sulphate-free shampoo, using plenty of hair conditioner, and massaging your scalp. She also advises against using a hot hair dryer too often, and brushing wet hair as it is when the hair is at its weakest and more likely to snap.
Check out more news and information on Hair on Science Times.
