Diet and Hair Health: Vitamin D and Iron Linked to Hair Loss

A new systematic review of 17 studies involving more than 61,000 participants has found that everyday dietary choices can influence hair health, with certain nutrients linked to reduced hair loss and others associated with greater risk. The analysis points to low vitamin D and iron intake as potential factors in more severe alopecia, while high consumption of sugary drinks and alcohol appears linked to greater hair loss risk, particularly among men. The researchers stress that results are heterogeneous and no single dietary pattern can be deemed universally protective, but the findings reinforce the role of nutrition in managing hair health.

Background and scope of the review Hair loss affects millions across age groups and backgrounds, with genetics and hormones long established as key drivers. In recent years, scientists have turned more attention to the role of diet and nutrition, not only for general health but also for hair follicle function and growth. The review followed standard methods for systematic reviews and drew evidence from a wide range of study types, including cross-sectional, case-control, randomized controlled trials, and cohorts. While some individual...