When starting keto, some people notice more hair in their shower or on their comb than they did before, leading some to wonder if the keto diet is to blame. Does keto cause hair loss? Is it proof that keto is not as good for your body as people say it is? Let’s take a look at the science.
Decoding the Hair Story
Before we tackle the hair loss mystery, let’s chat about how hair works. Hair goes through three primary stages: growing (the anagen phase), transitioning (the catagen phase), and resting (the telogen phase). Some hair falling out during that last phase is completely normal and happens no matter what your diet is like.
Things like hormones, stress, and how healthy you are can all play a role in how much of that shedding happens.
Sorting Out Hair Shedding vs. Hair Loss
While some people worry about how much hair fallout they’re noticing, it’s important to know that there’s a difference between regular hair shedding and actual hair loss. Shedding is temporary and can happen because of diet changes, stress, or even the season.
Hair loss is longer term and involves more significant thinning. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormones, or specific medical conditions.
What Science Says about Keto and Hair
The whole keto-hair loss connection? It’s more of a rumor than proven science. When people switch up their diet all of a sudden (not just with keto) their hair might get a bit thinner for a bit. But usually, it’s just your body adjusting, not a permanent hair loss.
Tips for Happy Hair on Keto
If you’re thinking about trying keto but worried about your hair, don’t sweat it. Here are some easy tips to keep your locks happy:
1. Mix Up Your Meals
Don’t stick to just one type of food. Eat a mix of stuff that’s good for your body and your hair.
2. Stay Hydrated
Drinking enough water isn’t just good for you—it helps your hair stay healthy too.
3. Take It Easy
Don’t rush into keto all at once. Give your body time to get used to it by making changes bit by bit.
4. Get the Right Nutrients
Protein, biotin, and collagen are all important for hair health, so if you’re noticing more shedding than usual, take a look at whether maybe you’re not getting quite enough of one (or all) of those important nutrients.
In conclusion
So, does keto really lead to hair loss? Not more than any other diet change. Yeah, some folks might notice some extra hair shedding when they start keto, but it’s usually temporary as your body adjusts. The key is to take care of yourself, eat a balanced diet, and remember that everyone’s body reacts differently.
Looking to try keto?
Then check out Keto Chow! Keto Chow is a low-carb meal shake that makes meal prep easy, so you have one less meal to worry about when starting your keto diet. Keto Chow comes in 30+ delicious flavors.
