For Women Only: How to Stop Age-Related Hair Loss
Have you noticed that your full, thick head of hair is looking a bit wispy and fragile? Do you see more hair on your brush or in the sink? While there are certain medical conditions that cause hair loss, it can often be a byproduct of the aging process.
According to Jonathan Wright, MD, hair loss can be caused by faulty digestion associated with lower than normal stomach acid and pepsin production, which frequently plagues older folks. The main problem is poor digestion of protein, which results in low levels of essential amino acids and minerals needed for hair growth.
You can stop this process, says Wright, by taking mineral and essential amino acid supplements, as well as a digestive enzyme supplement or hydrochloric acid-pepsin capsules with meals to improve digestion.
If you’re past menopause, there’s also the chance that it’s low DHEA levels, notes Dr. Wright. And this can be remedied, at least in part, with supplemental DHEA taken daily.
Another reason for thinning hair is an underfunctioning thyroid. This is often accompanied by the telltale sign of loss of eyebrow hairs at the outer edges. You’ll need to get your thyroid levels checked and may need a prescription to treat that. Many holistically oriented doctors favor Armour Thyroid, rather than the synthetic drug, Synthroid, which may cause hair loss as a side effect.
If its lack of luster and shine that’s your problem, don’t just look to a specialty shampoo. Try taking an essential fatty acid (EFA) supplement like fish oil to bring your hair back to life.
Insufficient levels of B vitamins, especially B12, can also be related to hair loss. Supplementing with a good multivitamin can help cover that base, as well as supply you with adequate levels of zinc, another nutrient associated with healthy hair, while maintaining the appropriate balance between zinc and copper.
One more suggestion to stem the tide of hair loss is methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), an a supplement often used to fight joint inflammation. The sulphur contain in MSM is critical to the structural development of hair, skin and nails. Researcher Andrew Lessman, who developed several products for healthy hair, recommends 700 mg of MSM daily.
While men may have similar problems with thinning hair, these recommendations won’t have any impact on male pattern baldness. Sorry guys!
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: See your doctor if you notice your hair falling out in clumps. There are specific conditions associated with hair loss that may require medication. Many of these recommendations for healthy hair are the same as those we make for overall health — a daily multivitamin, fish oil and an enzyme supplement for better digestion.
