You’ve been noticing more hair in your brush or the shower drain lately, and it’s natural to wonder what’s behind it. While genetics and hormones often play a role, there’s another, very common culprit that many people overlook: your iron levels. The connection between what’s happening on your head and what’s happening inside your body is stronger than you might think.
Iron is a powerhouse mineral. It’s essential for producing hemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen to every part of your body—including your hair follicles. These follicles are incredibly active, and when they don’t get enough oxygen and nutrients, they can shift into a resting phase, leading to increased shedding.
The Link Between Iron and Your Hair Growth Cycle
Think of your hair follicles as tiny, energy-intensive factories. To produce strong, healthy hair strands, they need a steady supply of fuel and raw materials. Iron is a critical component of that supply chain. When your iron stores are low, a condition known as iron deficiency or its more severe form, iron deficiency anemia, your body has to prioritize. It will send the limited oxygen to your most vital organs first, leaving your hair follicles in a state of neglect. This can disrupt the natural growth cycle, causing more hair to enter the shedding phase at the same time.
Could Your Iron Levels Be the Cause?
How can you tell if low iron is contributing to your hair loss? The type of hair loss associated with iron deficiency is often a general thinning all over the scalp, rather than a receding hairline or distinct bald patches. You might also experience other signs, such as feeling unusually tired, looking pale, having brittle nails, or feeling short of breath. If this sounds familiar, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor.
Simple Steps to Support Healthy Iron Levels
The good news is that this is often a manageable issue. A simple blood test can check your ferritin levels, which measures your body’s stored iron. If your levels are low, your doctor can help you create a plan. This often involves dietary changes to include more iron-rich foods like lean red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, spinach, and fortified cereals. Pairing these with a source of vitamin C, like a glass of orange juice or bell peppers, can help your body absorb the iron more effectively.
Remember, hair growth is a slow process, and patience is key. It can take several months of addressing your iron levels before you notice a significant reduction in shedding and a return to thicker, stronger hair. By looking at the root cause, you can take a positive step toward nurturing your hair from the inside out.