Hair loss affects millions of people, regardless of gender or age. While many consider it an inevitable consequence of genetics or aging, functional medicine reveals multiple factors contributing to this problem, from hormonal imbalances to specific nutritional deficiencies. Understanding these underlying causes allows us to develop effective strategies to prevent and treat hair loss.
The decisive role of hormones in hair health
Hormonal imbalances represent one of the main factors in hair loss, especially in what is known as androgenetic alopecia or common pattern baldness.
DHT: The key hormone in hair loss
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is an androgen derived from testosterone that plays a fundamental role in hair loss. This process works as follows:
- Testosterone is converted to DHT by the enzyme 5-alpha reductase
- DHT attaches to receptors in hair follicles
- Over time, DHT shrinks the follicles, weakening them and making them smaller
- The follicles produce finer hair until they eventually stop producing it altogether
Scalp follicles are particularly sensitive to DHT, which explains why hair loss occurs primarily on the head and not in other parts of the body.
Insulin resistance: A hidden but crucial factor
Insulin resistance and abdominal fat accumulation are important triggers for hair loss in both men and women:
- High insulin levels (caused by diets rich in sugar and starches) stimulate the 5-alpha reductase enzyme
- This enzyme increases DHT production
- Elevated DHT leads to hair loss
In women, this mechanism is especially relevant in conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where excess androgens can cause both hair loss on the scalp and unwanted hair growth in other parts of the body.
Nutritional deficiencies affecting hair health
Nutrition plays a fundamental role in maintaining healthy hair follicles. Deficiencies of certain micronutrients can significantly contribute to hair loss.
Essential minerals and vitamins
A deficit of these nutrients can seriously compromise hair health:
-
Zinc: Acts as a natural inhibitor of the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, helping to control DHT levels. Its deficiency is relatively common in processed Western diets.
-
Iron: Even without causing anemia, low ferritin levels (iron-storing protein) below 45 can cause diffuse hair loss. Low ferritin forces the body to redirect iron from hair follicles to more vital functions.
-
Proteins: Hair is primarily composed of keratin, a structural protein. Insufficient dietary protein, more common in vegans or people with digestive problems, can cause hair weakening and loss.
-
Other nutrients: Vitamin D, biotin, and vitamin B12 also play important roles in follicular health and growth.
Other root causes of hair loss
In addition to hormonal and nutritional factors, there are other important triggers that should be considered.
Chronic inflammation
Chronic inflammation is present in approximately half of hair loss cases, and can be caused by:
- Insulin resistance and visceral fat accumulation
- Ultra-processed diets that alter gut microbiota
- Chronic stress and lack of sleep
- Environmental toxins
- Food sensitivities, especially to gluten
Autoimmune conditions
Autoimmune diseases can manifest as hair problems:
- Lupus: can cause inflammation in the scalp and hair loss
- Thyroid diseases (Hashimoto's, Graves'): affect metabolism and hair health
- Alopecia areata: patchy hair loss from autoimmune attack
- Celiac disease: gluten sensitivity can manifest as severe hair loss
Effective strategies to combat hair loss
Addressing hair loss from a comprehensive perspective can offer significantly better results than conventional treatments.
Metabolic and hormonal optimization
To regulate hormone levels and reduce the conversion of testosterone to DHT:
- Reduce high-glycemic foods to decrease insulin resistance
- Incorporate regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce systemic inflammation
- Manage stress through practices such as meditation or yoga
Strategic supplementation
These supplements can be particularly beneficial:
- Zinc: to naturally inhibit 5-alpha reductase
- Iron (if there is ferritin deficiency)
- Collagen or high-quality proteins
- Vitamin D and B complex
- Adaptogens to regulate hormonal stress
Scalp care
Scalp health is fundamental:
- Use natural hair products without sulfates, parabens, or other harsh chemicals
- Avoid dyes with toxic components
- Consider natural topical treatments such as rosemary or green tea essential oils
Conclusion: A comprehensive approach to hair health
Hair loss rarely has a single cause. Addressing this problem from multiple angles offers the best chances of success. Instead of focusing solely on topical treatments, it is essential to:
- Optimize diet to control insulin levels and reduce inflammation
- Correct specific nutritional deficiencies
- Identify and treat underlying conditions such as thyroid problems or food sensitivities
- Implement lifestyle changes to reduce stress and improve sleep quality
Remember that changes in hair health take time. Consistency in these strategies for at least three to six months is essential to observe significant improvements. If you experience sudden or severe hair loss, consider consulting with a doctor specializing in functional medicine for a complete evaluation of possible underlying causes.