If you have a B12 deficiency, some of the symptoms can include irritability, depression, and extreme tiredness. However, did you know it can also cause hair loss as well?
In this article, we will explain the link between B12 deficiency and hair loss and what you can do to alleviate the side effects. Read on to find out more.
What is B12 Deficiency?
B12 deficiency is where a lack of vitamin B in your body can result in your body experiencing negative effects from it. Vitamin B helps with the production of red blood cells as well as the nervous system and also helps with breaking down the energy from food.
When you don’t have enough B12 this means your body can’t get the necessary energy from food and transport it around the body effectively using the red blood cells. This is why people who have a B-12 deficiency often feel sluggish and that they don’t have any energy.
B12 Deficiency and Hair Loss
People are aware of the more well-known symptoms of B-12 deficiency such as tiredness and anemia but they might not be aware that it can also cause hair loss.
This is because hair needs a certain mixture of vitamins in order to grow and look healthy. Vitamin B12 is one of those essential vitamins needed and if the body is deprived of it, some people can notice a reduction in their hair growth or even hair loss.
You might find that you are collecting more hair than usual in your hairbrush or that more of it comes out in the shower than before. An unusual amount of grey hair can also be an indication of a B12 deficiency.
Having a few grey hairs as you are nearing the age of 30 is a natural part of getting older, however, an abundance of grey hairs can signify you aren’t ingesting enough B12 in your diet.
It’s important to watch out for these symptoms, which can be reversed with enough introduction of B12 back into your daily routine.
Hair Loss Treatment and B12
One way of allowing your hair to return to its former state is to make sure you are eating foods that are rich in B12. Things such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products all have a good amount of naturally occurring B12 in them.
If you eat a mainly plant-based diet, you can also get B12 from fortified plant milk, meat substitutes, and nutritionist yeast.
However, if you want to ensure that you are getting enough B12 in your diet, a daily B12 shot can be an excellent way to make sure your bases are covered.
Getting Enough B12: Where Can I Find Out More?
We hope this article on B12 deficiency and hair loss has helped you recognize any symptoms you may have.
It’s important to note that any side effects from B12 deficiency can be alleviated by introducing enough B12 into your body.
If you enjoyed this article, why not check out our previous blog posts?
