‘It isn’t quite that simple’: Can supplements really be used to stop hair loss?

Jo Cunningham BSc (Hons) RD, FCCA is the Clinical Director of The Gut Health Clinic, founded by Megan Rossi, The Gut Health Doctor. She discussed whether supplements can really be used to boost hair loss?

Jo said: “There are lots of products out there marketed at improving hair quality or reducing hair loss, sadly without the robust evidence to support their use.

“Unfortunately hair loss isn’t quite that simple, and often mostly down to genetics.

“That being said, nutritional deficiencies have been associated with hair loss so for some people where that may be the case (where lab results back up the theory), then a supplement may be helpful.

“For the most part, eating a balanced diet with a good variety of plant foods is the best way to spend our money rather than on supplements.”

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“We should be able to meet nutritional needs through a wide range of foods.

“Diversity in the diet will not only provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals, but by also including plenty of plants, you’ll be getting a good amount of fibre which feeds the trillions of gut microbes living in the large intestine and is associated with a range of health benefits.”

However, it is possible for supplements to be medically necessary in some cases, Jo said.

“There are instances when supplements may be necessary though, such as where a deficiency needs to be corrected.

“Our team of dietitians assess the need for supplements on a case-by-case basis, and only recommend supplements where there is good evidence for their use.”

Jo Cunningham also warned Express.co.uk readers supplements can cause problems, including weight gain, headaches, nausea, constipation, and other side effects. 

She said: “It’s easy to take a pill thinking that it’s just a vitamin or mineral, but more isn’t always better.

“If you are taking micronutrients, always check the recommended daily allowance (RDA) and don’t go above this.

“High doses of minerals and fat-soluble vitamins can build up in the system, resulting in toxicity.”