The topic of vitamin B12 deficiency hair loss is an interesting one. Most of us are familiar with some of the more common causes of hair loss, such as male pattern baldness, but we don’t really know much about concerns like vitamin B12 hair loss. So, how does vitamin B12 affect hair loss, and how can we increase the amount our bodies take in on a daily basis? Is vitamin B12 hair loss a recognised condition, and what can we do about it?
Deficiencies in vitamin B12 are amongst the most common vitamin deficiencies in the world. Also known as ‘folate deficiency anaemia,’ symptoms can creep up on us slowly over time. If we don’t deal with the deficiency, however, some of the side effects can be irreversible, so it’s vital that we monitor and address our levels. In some cases, if left untreated and the condition worsens, the lack of vitamin B12 can cause problems with the brain and the nervous system, and in severe cases can lead to heart failure.
What Contributes to Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
If you’re keen to minimise the chances of vitamin B12 deficiency hair loss, you need to understand what causes it in the first place. The most common reason for having a lack of B12 in the system is due to a condition called pernicious anaemia, an auto-immune condition that affects the stomach. Gastritis, which is inflammation of the stomach lining, can also lead to lower levels of vitamin B12. We should be able to get the required levels of essential vitamins and minerals from our diet, but using supplements is another way to boost intake. It may surprise you to know that around 50% of vegetarians and vegans are deficient in vitamin B12, as are roughly 50% of diabetes sufferers. The over 60s, heavy alcohol users and those on certain prescription medications are also more susceptible. But does this make them more likely to be candidates for B12 hair loss? It might not cause the problem, but getting enough of this essential vitamin won’t do your hair growth any harm, that’s for sure.
What Are the Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
We’ve already talked about the importance of dealing with declining vitamin B12 levels, but how can you recognise a potential deficiency before it becomes a problem? Fatigue is one of the most common indicators, but that can be due to so many other factors that it wouldn’t necessarily point you in the right direction. Brain fog, poor memory, joint and muscle pain are also signs to look out for. You may develop hormonal imbalances, infertility issues and anaemia too. Finally, B12 deficiency hair loss manifests itself in greying or thinning hair. Although this is a symptom of a deficiency in B12, there is little evidence to suggest that increasing levels will restore hair growth. There are many benefits to ensuring you are getting enough vitamin B12, however, other than trying to improve hair growth. Your nerve function, cardiovascular health, mental health and immune function, as well as your energy levels and vital organ health are all favourably affected when you get enough vitamin B12.
So How Does Vitamin B12 Contribute to Hair Growth?
Amino acids are the building blocks for hair growth, and vitamin B12 enables your body to metabolise these amino acids. Vitamin B12 keeps red blood cells healthy, which encourages the supply of oxygen to the tissues, including the hair follicles. If the body is deficient in vitamin B12, and oxygen levels are low, your body will prioritise the vital organ’s need for oxygen, over and above the requirements of the hair follicles. An unfortunate consequence of this is that the hair may start to fall out. This helps to explain why maintaining levels of B12 may help avoid hair loss, but increasing intake levels after the event will have little to no effect.
How Can I Get Enough Vitamin?
If you’re looking to get your vitamin B12 requirements from your diet, you should try to increase your intake of red meat, liver, salmon, poultry, dairy products, eggs and fortified cereals. If you don’t feel you are reaching the recommended daily intake you can always take supplements to boost your levels. There is also the possibility of getting Vitamin B12 injections periodically, if you are finding it difficult to get the right amount from your diet and supplements. Ensuring you are getting enough can help avoid the likelihood of deficient vitamin B12 hair loss.
What Can I Do if I’m Losing My Hair?
Keep in mind that vitamin B12 is not a magic cure for hair loss. Yes, it is necessary to maintain hair growth, but promoting new hair growth is unlikely to happen by increasing the levels of this vitamin. It remains undetermined whether vitamin B12 hair loss can be reversed in any way, simply by taking in more vitamin B12.
Don’t lose hope though! There are plenty of other, proven methods to improve hair growth and restore a full head of hair. Many men and women turn to scalp treatments and ointments to encourage hair growth and thickness. There are also scalp injections and medications available, if you are more comfortable with that type of treatment.
What About Hair Transplants?
For those looking for something a little more permanent, hair transplant treatments should be considered. The skill and precision with which these procedures are carried out can restore your hair growth and give you back a full head of healthy hair.
At Enhance Hair Restoration, we are proud to be one of the leading providers of cutting edge procedures in the UK. We offer both surgical and non-surgical treatments to deal with different levels of hair loss. Men and women alike have found us to be understanding and considerate, as well as incredibly knowledgeable and expertly qualified, in the field of hair restoration. Take a look at our gallery of clients and see what they have to say about their journey with us.
Hair loss can be a sensitive subject for some, and we understand that very well. If you are considering getting some kind of treatment, give us a call and we will be happy to talk you through your options.
