Weight loss is a remarkable achievement for those who work hard to get in shape, but it often comes with unintended consequences.

One of the most disheartening side effects of weight loss is hair loss.

Sudden weight loss can lead to a nutritional deficiency, which can result in hair loss. However, the good news is that you can prevent hair loss by following a few easy steps. In this blog post, we will discuss some fundamental measures that you can implement to prevent hair loss after weight loss.

Adequate Protein Intake:

If you want to maintain strong and healthy hair after weight loss, you must get enough protein. Protein is like a building block for your hair, and it helps your body to create new strands. After weight loss surgery, it can be difficult to get enough protein from your diet, which can lead to hair loss. To maintain healthy hair, aim for a daily intake of at least 60-80g of protein from sources such as chicken, eggs, fish, beans, and legumes. Download my free guide to protein here!

Multivitamins and Supplements:

Taking vitamins and supplements can help improve hair growth after weight loss. Biotin, Vitamin D, and iron supplements are essential for maintaining good hair health. Biotin, in particular, can help promote hair growth and prevent hair loss. Try taking 10,000mcg of biotin a month before surgery to give your hair growth a head start.

Drink Plenty of Water:

Keeping your body hydrated is essential for maintaining healthy hair. When your body is dehydrated, your hair becomes dry and brittle, making it more prone to breakage. Drinking plenty of water can help maintain healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss.

Avoid Harsh Chemical Treatments:

Styling and chemical treatments can severely damage your hair and lead to hair loss. Heat styling tools like straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers can cause your hair to become dry and brittle, leading to breakage. Dyeing your hair can also damage your hair strands and cause hair loss. To prevent hair loss, consider air-drying your hair, and use heat protectant sprays when using heat styling tools.

Stop Stressing:

Stress is a common cause of hair loss after weight loss. Hair loss can be frustrating and demotivating, but stressing about it will only make it worse. Stress can lead to nutritional deficiencies and weaken your hair follicles, which can result in hair loss. Try to relax and practice mindfulness techniques like meditation or yoga to reduce stress levels and prevent hair loss.

Losing weight comes with its own set of challenges, including the risk of hair loss. However, by following these simple steps, you can help prevent hair loss and maintain healthy hair growth. Adequate protein intake, multivitamins and supplements, drinking plenty of water, avoiding harsh chemical treatments, and reducing stress can all help prevent hair loss after weight loss. 

Your hair should start growing back after (or even before) the 6 month mark after surgery.  If you notice that hair loss is still an issue after 6 months or so then contact your physician.  As part of your work-up, your physician will likely check for any thyroid issues, low iron levels, as well as run a complete vitamin panel to make sure you are keeping up with your recommended vitamins.

Remember, healthy hair is a reflection of a healthy body, so prioritize your overall health to promote strong and healthy hair growth.