The topic of hair loss frequently arises, especially among those who start a ketogenic diet and notice their hair falling out. Let’s explore the four hormones responsible for hair loss and understand how the keto diet plays a role.
If your hair looks like it’s thinning, even if you’re a man, you may be experiencing pathological hair loss, which indicates that hormones are not effectively reaching the hair follicles. This situation is not normal. Here’s a chart showing what is considered normal versus pathological hair loss, as well as what might lead to further thinning.
I experienced type 1 hair loss, having had a full head of hair at 15. Now, at almost 52, I see a noticeable line where my part is. As I age, my hormones will change, and I may progress further into the types of hair loss, especially during menopause. However, I aim to avoid progressing to type 2 hair loss.
What Happens in Hair Follicles?
To understand the hormonal issues causing hair loss, let’s look at the hair follicle structure. The bottom of the follicle receives blood supply, which nourishes the hair as it grows. The hair we see is actually dead; only the hair bulb at the base is alive and dividing.
When patients come to me with hair loss, I often ask about their sleep and stress levels, as hair health can reflect overall well-being. The hair lifecycle consists mainly of the anagen (growth) phase and a small percentage in the catagen (transition) phase. Stress can trigger the transition to the catagen phase, whether due to age or significant events like chemotherapy.
During this phase, the blood supply to the hair follicle diminishes, leading to hair loss in the future—often without immediate signs. You may not notice hair falling out for about three months, even though the follicles are in a dormant state.
Chronic Inflammation and Hormones
Chronic inflammation can severely affect hair follicles. Patients with issues like autoimmune disorders or persistent health problems often experience hair thinning. To revitalize hair growth, it’s essential to restore the follicles to a healthy anagen phase, requiring fat-based hormones.
These hormones begin with cholesterol, which converts to hormones such as progesterone, aldosterone, estradiol, testosterone, and vitamin D. However, high insulin levels can cause these fat-based hormones to be stored in fat cells instead of being available for hair growth.
The Role of the Keto Diet
When you follow a ketogenic diet, you lower carbohydrate intake, which decreases insulin levels. As your glucose levels drop, ketones increase, releasing fat-based hormones back into circulation. This allows them to reach the hair follicles, promoting hair growth.
However, many individuals experience hair loss when starting keto. This phenomenon can occur because weight loss itself is a form of stress. Transitioning to a low insulin state can be shocking for the body, especially for those who are insulin resistant. Hair thinning may start a few weeks after beginning the diet, causing concern.
Patience in the Hair Growth Cycle
In my clinic, I reassure patients that while they may feel like their hair is thinning, it’s often part of the transition. The new hair growth may be occurring beneath the skin’s surface, and it takes time for that growth to push through. Most patients gravitate toward expensive shampoos and treatments, but the real magic lies in the body’s hormonal adjustments.
When hair loss patients come to me, the first hormone I check and often replace is vitamin D, which is vital for hair health.