Weight loss Journeys often bring incredible transformations, but they can also come with unexpected side effects, like hair loss/shedding. Whether your're using medications like Wegovy, Ozempic, or Semaglutides, or undergoing procedures such as gastric sleeve etc. understanding their effects on your hair and how to mitigate them is crucial.
How Weight Loss Surgery and Medications Affect Your Hair
Hair loss during weight loss is commonly linked to a temporary condition called Telogen Effluvium. This condition occurs when physical stress, such as, rapid weight loss or reduced nutrient intake, pushes a significant portion of hair follicles into the resting (telogen) phase, causing shedding.
Gastric Sleeve Surgery: This procedure reduces the stomach size limiting food intake. While effective for weight loss, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies in iron, zinc, protein and vitamins B12 and D; which are all essential for healthy hair.
Wegovy and Ozempic (Semaglutides): These are designed for weight loss and blood sugar control, by suppressing your appetite. While they work great for managing weight, the reduced food intake may result in insufficient nutrients, indirectly impacting hair health.
Rapid Weight Loss: No matter the method, losing weight quickly often shocks the body, prioritizing energy for vital organs rather than hair growth, leading to temporary Shedding.
What Can You Do?
Focus on nutrient rich foods.
Protein: Hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein. Increase protein intake to at least 60-80 grams daily, through lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy or plant-based food source like tofu and beans.
Iron and Zinc: These nutrients support hair follicle health. Incorporate leafy greens, legumes, nuts and seeds in your meals.
Take Essential Supplements: Some post surgery or weight loss supplements can include: Biotin to strengthen, Iron to prevent deficiency related shedding, Zinc to support growth and repair; and Multivitamins to ensure daily nutrient requirements.
Hydrate: Dehydration can weaken hair strands and lead to dryness. Drink plenty of water to support hair and scalp health.
Avoid Aggressive Calorie Deficits: Aim for slower gradual weight loss that reduces stress on the body.
Practice Gentle Hair Care: Avoid excessive, tight, heat styling and harsh chemicals. Use shampoo and conditioners formulated to strengthen hair like Angie's Knots Tea Tree & Rosemary Shampoo and Conditioners, made with natural ingredients.
Keep your scalp healthy with the Shimmy Spray (moisturizing Scalp Spray) and hydrate your strands with the Hydration Leave-In Conditioning Spray. Visit angiesknotsllc.com to purchase these amazing products and give your hair the care it deserves!
Comments