Recent studies have begun to examine the relationship between intermittent fasting and hair growth, suggesting that this popular dietary approach may have unintended consequences for hair regeneration.
While intermittent fasting—alternating between eating and fasting periods—has gained traction for its numerous health benefits, such as weight reduction and reduced inflammation, evidence is emerging that it could negatively affect hair health.
Insights from Animal Studies
Initially, the researchers conducted experiments using mice to observe the effects of intermittent fasting.
The mice were shaved and divided into two groups: one followed a 16:8 fasting regimen (eating for eight hours and fasting for sixteen), while the other group fasted every other day.
A control group was allowed to eat without restrictions.
The results were striking.
After a 90-day observation period, the mice subjected to intermittent fasting showed minimal hair regrowth.
Conversely, their control counterparts completely regrew their fur in just 30 days.
The research team speculates that the delay in hair regrowth could stem from the oxidative stress hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) experience during fasting.
When the body transitions from burning glucose to utilizing fat, these stem cells struggle to adapt, leading to slower hair regeneration.
Human Trial Outcomes
A smaller clinical trial with 49 healthy young adults mirrored the findings from the animal studies.
Participants who practiced an 18-hour fasting window experienced an 18% reduction in hair growth rate compared to those following a traditional eating pattern.
One senior author of the study pointed out the variability in responses to intermittent fasting among different individuals.
The metabolic differences between mice and humans may result in more pronounced effects in animal subjects.
While some stem cells do undergo apoptosis, many HFSCs remain viable in humans, allowing for continued, albeit slower, hair regrowth.
The researcher highlighted that, despite the health benefits often associated with intermittent fasting, it’s crucial to consider its potential side effects.
Future research aims to delve deeper into how fasting affects tissue regeneration and skin healing, while also identifying specific metabolites that could promote HFSC survival and stimulate hair growth during fasting periods.
The Need for Further Human Research
Medical News Today consulted two physicians from Hackensack Meridian Health in New Jersey regarding these findings.
One physician noted the popularity of intermittent fasting among individuals seeking weight loss and emphasized the necessity of understanding its possible side effects.
Reflecting on the significant differences in hair regrowth observed in mice, the physician urged for further studies involving human participants to determine whether these results are applicable in people.
Another physician contributed that hair loss is a common occurrence among patients who experience rapid weight loss, regardless of the method.
Hair growth in mammals follows a cyclic pattern, and intermittent fasting could disrupt this cycle, particularly in the transition from resting to growing phases.
This disruption may result from changes in hormonal balances, metabolic functions, and the behavior of hair follicle stem cells.
This doctor noted that the effect of intermittent fasting on hair follicle stem cells extends beyond mere calorie scarcity or altered eating rhythms, suggesting that other biological mechanisms may also contribute to the hair loss associated with fasting, irrespective of actual weight loss.
For those who practice intermittent fasting and are concerned about hair loss, a registered dietitian offers essential advice: proper nutrition is vital for overall health, including hair vitality.
She recommends consulting a healthcare professional to tailor nutrient intake to individual dietary needs, factoring in health conditions, personal goals, genetics, lifestyle, and food access.
Key nutrients for supporting hair growth include proteins for amino acid supply, vitamins A, C, D, and E, various B vitamins (such as folate, biotin, and niacin), and important minerals like iron, selenium, and zinc.
Including essential fatty acids in one’s diet can also boost hair health and skin well-being.
The dietitian stresses the value of consistent, nutrient-rich meals rather than relying solely on popular supplements that may overly concentrate on certain nutrients, potentially depleting others.
Instead, she advocates for a balanced diet that includes wholesome foods and the joy of sharing meals with family and friends for holistic health.
Source: Medicalnewstoday