Hair loss could be unexpected side effect of losing weight

Hair loss can be an unexpected side effect of losing weight. While shedding between 50 to 100 strands of hair a day is normal, losing more could indicate a problem.

Registered dietitian nutritionist Kait Richardson advises ruling out other health conditions first.

“Get your thyroid checked and make sure that that’s not the root cause of your thinning hair,” said Richardson.

Hair loss typically occurs three to four months after rapid weight loss and is usually temporary, lasting about six months. Along with hair loss, nail changes might also occur.

“You might notice that they’re more brittle or flaky or thinning,” said Richardson.

A study involving 112 women who had gastric sleeve surgery found that nearly 75% of them experienced hair loss. Additionally, a recent article in the journal Cell found that both humans and animals on an intermittent fasting diet had slowed hair growth. Sometimes, the culprit for hair loss is a nutrient deficiency.

“I would say the number one thing is to make sure that you’re consuming a wide variety of nutrients,” said Richardson.

Protein, zinc, iron, fatty acids, selenium and vitamin D are all important for hair health. The best course of action is to consult a doctor, as a simple blood test could reveal the cause of hair loss.

Rapid weight loss from taking injections like Ozempic could trigger hair loss, but the drug itself does not directly cause baldness. Temporary hair loss can also result from stress, some medications, a high fever, giving birth and severe illness or infection.