You’ve been noticing more hair in your brush or the shower drain lately, and it’s natural to feel concerned. At the same time, you might be feeling unusually tired, weak, or looking a bit pale. Could these two issues be connected? The answer is yes. When your body is low on iron, a condition known as iron deficiency anaemia, it can directly impact the health and growth of your hair.
The Link Between Iron and Your Hair Follicles
Think of your hair follicles as tiny factories that are constantly working to produce new hair strands. To operate at their best, these factories need a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients. Iron is a key component of haemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. When iron is scarce, oxygen is prioritised for essential functions like your heart and brain, leaving your hair follicles starved. This can push more of your hair into the shedding phase and slow down the growth of new hair, leading to the thinning you may be noticing.
Other Signs You Might Be Iron Deficient
Hair loss is often just one piece of the puzzle. If you’re experiencing anaemia, you might also feel persistently fatigued, even after a full night’s sleep. Other common signs include pale skin, shortness of breath, dizziness, cold hands and feet, and a fast or irregular heartbeat. If you’re noticing a combination of these symptoms alongside hair thinning, it’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider.
Steps You Can Take for Healthier Hair
The good news is that hair loss from anaemia is often reversible. The first and most important step is to get a proper diagnosis. A simple blood test can confirm if you have low iron levels. If you are deficient, your doctor will likely recommend dietary changes and possibly an iron supplement. Focus on incorporating iron-rich foods like red meat, spinach, lentils, and fortified cereals into your meals. 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.
While it can be worrying to see your hair thin, recognising the connection to anaemia provides a clear path forward. By addressing the root cause of the issue with professional guidance, you can work on restoring your iron levels and, in time, support your hair’s return to its natural growth cycle. Be patient with your body, as it can take several months of consistent iron levels to see a noticeable improvement in hair density.