Postpartum Hair Loss
We’re all familiar with the struggles of a bad hair day. Sometimes even after long periods of primping, your hair just won’t seem to cooperate. But what happens when this period is extended? After birth, many mothers experience a phenomenon known as telogen gravidarum also known as postpartum hair loss. The idea of losing hair can be a scary thing for many women in our society. However, it is important to remember that birth can bring many drastic changes to our body and it takes some time for new mothers to recover. After birth hair loss in the first 3 months is quite normal. It occurs when the normal hair growth cycle is interrupted by a sudden loss of pregnancy hormones. This triggers a quick turnover of hair follicles leading to excess hair loss. Although it can be distressing to some women, it is important to remember that postpartum hair loss is only temporary. Once the body readjusts, hair growth will return to its normal growth pattern. To improve hair growth, experts recommend including the foods with the following nutrients in your diet:
- Iron
Found in: spinach, swiss chard, collard greens, egg yolks, beef, and beans.
- Fish Oil
Found in: egg yolks, walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds, salmon, tuna, white fish, and mackerel.
- B-Complex Vitamin
Found in: potatoes, legumes, nuts, beef, chicken, and avocados.
- Vitamin C
Found in: oranges, strawberries, grapefruit, kiwi, broccoli, kale, Brussels sprouts, and red peppers.
- Vitamin D
Found in: salmon, tuna, egg yolks, mushrooms, oranges, and oatmeal.
Sources:Shrivastava, S. B. (2009). Diffuse hair loss in an adult female: an approach to diagnosis and management. Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology, and Leprology, 75(1), 20.
