Many women have thicker and healthier hair during pregnancy because their oestrogen levels are high. The increased oestrogen level means that hair remains in its growing phase longer, leaving fewer hair in the resting phase, which is the phase during which hair is shed.
After birth, the levels of oestrogen fall, and larger amounts of hair go into the resting phase, causing excessive shedding, or hair loss. Although there is no way to completely prevent hair loss after pregnancy, it can be minimised by taking certain measures.
The American Pregnancy Association (APA) recommends a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. These contain high levels of flavonoids and antioxidants that encourage hair growth by protecting hair follicles. Fruits and vegetables that are highest in antioxidant power include blueberries, cranberries, kiwis, spinach, artichokes and peppers. Maintaining a well – balanced diet will ensure minimum hair loss after pregnancy.
For a woman, maintaining health before and after pregnancywill result in long term benefits in many aspects of her and her family’s life. Nutritional supplements will go a long way to help her achieve that. According to APA, a new mother should supplement her diet with vitamins B complex, C and E, biotin and zinc.These will specifically help minimize hair loss. However, any supplements should be taken after consultation with the doctor, to ensure that doses are not too high. This is especially because some supplements are not safe if taken in large amounts.
