Healthy adults normally shed 50 -100 hairs each day. Temporary hair loss can occur due to stress, illness, thyroid disorder, kidney deficiency, hormonal imbalance and as a reaction to general anaesthetics and other medications. In these circumstances, a large number of hair follicles suddenly go into a resting phase, causing hair to thin noticeably, although the hair may not fall out until 2-3 months after the event. Hair loss can also be caused by exposure of the hair or scalp to burns, genetics, x-rays, scalp injury, infection, long term illnesses, side effects of medications, poor nutrition and certain chemicals (including those used to purify swimming pools, and to bleach, dye, and perm hair). Normal hair growth usually returns once the cause is eliminated. Dietary mineral deficiencies have also been implicated in hair loss, particularly deficiency of zinc, selenium, silica and copper and iron deficiency.
REASONS FOR MALE PATTERN HAIRLOSS
There are three main reasons behind hair loss and male pattern baldness, one is genetics (Androgenetica alopecia) and one is an immune system disorder (Alopecia areata).
- Genetic hair loss is a permanent change. A male can look to his mother’s father to determine whether or not he is likely to develop alopecia.
- Immune system disorder which attacks the hair follicles and hair growth becomes limited. Immuno-suppressive drugs are used as orthodox treatment for this condition.
- Aging – the body slowly loses its ability to replace the hairs that are shed, this type of hair loss is permanent.
DIET TIPS FOR MALE PATTERN BALDNESS
- Protein is an important food group which contributes to the overall health and quality of the hair
- For healthy hair and scalp choose a diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables, especially leafy green vegetables, and suggest you eat some good protein sources everyday. It is important to have a balanced diet to ensure your hair receives sufficient nutrients to stay strong and healthy
LIFESTYLE FACTORS FOR MALE PATTERN BALDNESS
- Address Kidney insufficiencies, in Chinese Medicine it is the health and vitality of the Kidneys which can be linked with male pattern baldness due to the adrenals producing the hormones responsible for hair growth
- Manage stress
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR MALE PATTERN BALDNESS
- Saw Palmetto may retard further hair loss due to the Phytosterols inhibiting the conversion of Testosterone to Dihydrotestosterone by the 5-Alpha-Reductase enzyme which contributes to hair loss
- Ginkgo helps to stimulate circulation and hair growth of the hair shaft
- Other herbs which have been traditionally used are Korean Ginseng, Rehmannia, Perilla, Flaxseeds, Chilli, Hydrangea and Green Tea
- Aromatherapy massage using essential oils and a carrier and massaged into the scalp daily for up to a year. Some effective essential oils are Rosemary, Lavender, Cedarwood and Thyme may stimulate the growth of hair by increasing circulation
- Biotin is an essential vitamin which has been found in clinical trials to strengthen soft brittle nails and reduce breaking and splitting after 12 weeks
- Silica is concentrated in the nails, hair and skin and contributes to collagen formation to help it to strengthen
- Zinc helps maintain the structural integrity of the nails, hair and skin and is important for a healthy immune system
- Vitamin C is important in the production of collagen and for a healthy immune system
- Folic acid, iron, manganese, beta-carotene and vitamin B5 all assist with metabolism of nutrients important for nails, hair and skin
- Herbs such as Dong Quai and Rhemannia may help to improve the liver and congested Qi (energy) while invigorating the blood to improve the circulation to the hair follicle. This means that more important nutrients such as Biotin and Silica can be delivered to the hair shaft.
