What to Eat to Address Hair Loss after Pregnancy

The right nutrition is necessary for overall health, and for new mothers suffering from temporary hair loss, incorporating certain foods in their diet can make a great impact. It is natural for people to worry when hair starts to fall out, especially for women who consider hair as their crowning glory. Aside from using products that can help strengthen hair, check what you are eating. Your hair should start to regain fullness before your baby turns one. Here are some foods you can eat to help stop excessive hair shedding early.

1. Spinach. Spinach is a good choice for women who have to deal with hair loss after pregnancy. The vegetable is rich in iron and vitamin C that helps absorb iron. Iron deficiency hampers hemoglobin production in the blood. Hemoglobin carries oxygen needed to grow and repair cells, including the ones needed for hair growth.
2. Seeds and Nuts. Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, are crucial in maintaining the health of our skin, hair and nails. Omega-3s also have anti-inflammatory properties that open hair follicles and promote growth of hair. Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of essential fatty acids, so include almonds, walnuts and flax seeds in your diet. Shellfish, such as clam, lobster and shrimp are also rich in omega-3. Lastly, fish like salmon, trout, tuna and cod offer good amount of omega-3s.
3. Oysters. Zinc is an important mineral when dealing with hair loss. A study showed that the zinc levels of people suffering from hair loss are significantly low compared to those who have healthy hair. It’s a good thing that zinc can be obtained from food and in many cases; zinc-rich foods can reduce hair loss. That gives you another reason to add foods such as oysters, walnuts and eggs in your diet.
4. Chicken and Dairy. Hair is made of protein, and when you don’t have enough of it, production of non-essential protein such as hair growth can be shut down. Hair loss happens 2 to 3 months after protein levels drop significantly. Once protein intake meets recommended levels, hair growth begins. Good sources of protein include lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs and soy products.

Hair loss after pregnancy is supposed to be temporary, but if it persists longer, there might be underlying causes including stress and poor diet. It helps to avoid harsh hair treatments while you’re waiting for your hair to grow fuller. Use mild shampoo and avoid applying conditioner on the ends. You can also consider safe treatments such as micropigmentation, which is like a hair tattoo using natural pigments, such as that provided by Skalp, so you can bring back your confidence and enjoy fuller hair.

Image via freedigitalphotos.net/ hyena reality