Does Sugar Affect Hair Loss?

Factors Contributing to Hair Loss Development

There are many factors that contribute to hair loss.

Even if you're genetically predisposed, you can ward off early hair loss. You may have heard of epigenetics where stressors other than genetics can determine the direction in which a gene will go.

Could one of those stressors be our diet? Could a diet high in sugar be contributing to hair loss?

Scalp Glands and Nutritional Requirements

There are at least half a million glands in the scalp, all of which serve the purpose of growing hair. In order to function properly, these glands must be well nourished—starve them and hair loss begins.

Thus, diet and nutrition are essential.

Research Linking Sugar Intake to Hair Loss

Research has shown that a diet comprised of a high sugar content and refined carbohydrates could be contributing to hair loss.

In 2009, scientists in Finland noticed a common denominator in understanding receding hairlines: Men with insulin resistance were much more likely to be bald. The most common cause of this resistance? A high sugar and refined carbohydrate diet.

Insulin Resistance and Hair Loss Connection

While insulin is working to keep our blood sugar levels from going too high, indulging our body with frequent high doses of sugar can make the pancreas tire of its job and go on 'strike' as it were. The body becomes insulin resistant, and type 2 diabetes can result.

There are currently about 170 million worldwide affected by diabetes including 20 million diabetic patients in the USA; numbers which are expected to double by 2030.

Blood Sugar Impact on Hair Follicles

Without enough insulin, high blood sugar levels result, and these chronic levels can cause a variety of complications.

One complication, as stated by Medical News Today on the subject of high blood sugar levels, is damage to the blood vessels:

"Damage to blood vessels can restrict blood flow, resulting in certain cells getting less oxygen and nutrients than they need. This deficiency can negatively impact the normal growth cycle of hair follicles, which can lead to hair loss."

Blood Flow and Scalp Health Requirements

Oxygen and blood flow are essential to the health of all cells, including those in the scalp.

In summary:

• a constant diet of sugar intake can create insulin resistance
• Insulin resistance can result in high blood sugar levels
• Elevated levels of insulin can cause damage to the blood vessels, restricting blood flow and preventing the hair follicles from being delivered the nutrients they need to thrive.

Expert Opinion on Diet and Hair Loss

While more research is still needed to see just how this relationship works, a strong point is summarized well by renowned Dr. David Kingsley:

"The consensus is that diet influences hair loss."

Nutritional Support for Hair Growth Prevention

Feed your roots with the nutrients they need to grow. Feed your cells with proper nutrition through healthy food choices. HAIRMETTO topical nourishment for your scalp supports^® your efforts to stop hair loss and regrow what was lost.

https://www.gq.com/story/is-your-diet-making-you-bald-hair-statistics

https://www.endocrineweb.com/conditions/type-1-diabetes/what-insulin

http://www.diabetesincontrol.com/how-high-blood-sugars-damage-blood-vessels/