This Morning: Liz Earle discusses supplements for hair loss
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Since hair quality is a potent vitality signal, and hair growth deficiency can cause significant psychological impact to many, finding alternative and natural treatments to help combat hair loss is a thriving business. In addition to clearly defined hair loss disorders, milder forms of hair thinning, or hair loss appear to be increasingly common, with a suggestion that sub-optimal diets and stressful lifestyles may be involved.
This is when the right kind of foods and supplements could have a great impact on one’s hair line.
Marine proteins that are especially effective in nourishing hair are oysters, salmon and clams. These foods are rich in protein and key hair growth vitamins and minerals.
Evidence suggests taking a particular marine protein supplement (MPS) can promote hair growth in affected areas.
MPS are derived from sustainable marine sources and this particular supplement also contains biotin – a water-soluble vitamin that’s a part of the vitamin B family.
In a study published in the US National Library of Health Medicine National Institutes of Health, a marine protein-based diet for subclinical hair thinning/loss was further analysed.
The study assessed the value of a dietary marine-extract based dietary supplement in premenopausal women with subclinical hair thinning or hair loss conditions.
The results showed that hair shedding was significantly reduced in the first three to six months of daily consumption of the oral supplement.
Moreover, phototrichogram image analysis revealed a statistically significant increase in the mean vellus-like hair diameter after six months of supplement consumption, when compared to the mean vellus-like hair diameters measured at baseline.
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In another study which was published in Hindawi, a three-month study evaluated the ability of an extra-strength marine protein supplement to promote hair growth and decrease shedding in women with self-perceived thinning hair.
The study noted: “An oral marine protein supplement is designed to promote hair growth in women with temporary thinning hair.
“This double-blind, placebo-controlled study assessed the ability of marine protein supplements to promote terminal hair growth in adult women with self-perceived thinning hair associated with poor diet, stress, hormonal influences, or abnormal menstrual cycles.
“Adult women with thinning hair were randomised to receive MPS or placebo twice daily for 90 days.
“Digital images were obtained from a scalp target area. Each subject’s hair was washed and shed hairs were collected and counted. After 90 days, these measures were repeated.”
The study concluded after results that marine protein supplements promotes hair growth and decreases hair loss in women suffering from temporary thinning hair.
Other ways to treat hair loss
According to Mayo Clinic, one of the main over-the-counter hair loss treatments is minoxidil.
“It comes as a liquid or foam that you rub into your scalp daily,” explains the health body.
At least six months of treatment is required to prevent further hair loss and to start hair regrowth, notes the health site.
There are a number of drawbacks to taking this medication, cautions the NHS.
According to the health site, these treatments:
• Don’t work for everyone
• Only work for as long as they’re used
• Aren’t available on the NHS
• Can be expensive
Wigs are another viable option, but these come with cons too.
As the NHS explains, real-hair wigs can be costly and can be difficult to maintain.
You can always opt for synthetic versions, which are easier to maintain but do not last as long as real-hair wigs.
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