149 Experiencing Hair Loss, Thinning, Shedding, Breakage? Here is What to Do Now
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Thyroid Mystery Solved: Hashimoto's and Hypothyroidism Revealed
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One of the more common issues I hear from my patients is one I have also dealt with - hair loss, thinning, and breakage. Throughout my nearly 20 years of experience helping people with thyroid and Hashimoto's, I've noticed that along with fatigue, brain fog, and weight gain, hair problems are a common occurrence. In the latest episode, I shed some light on the top reasons for hair loss. But, don’t worry, I also share practical solutions to bring life back to your locks.
Here are the top 5 most common causes of hair issues:
- Thyroid and Hashimoto’s
- Nutritional Deficiencies
- Stress
- Hormonal Shifts
- PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
Let’s dive a little deeper into each one and look at ways you can support hair health for each of these root causes (pun intended!)
Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, and Hair Woes
The thyroid plays a significant role in our overall well-being, including our hair health. Hypothyroidism, where your body produces insufficient thyroid hormone, and Hashimoto's, an autoimmune disease that mistakenly attacks the thyroid, often lead to hair shedding, thinning, and brittleness. To address these issues, it's vital to take a comprehensive approach.
This starts with a thorough understanding of your thyroid status - you have to know your numbers! And, you have to know all of them. Many doctors will only test TSH but that won’t give you the full picture. A full thyroid panel is essential. This includes TSH, Total T4, Total T3, Free T4, Free T3, T3 Uptake, Reverse T3, and thyroid antibodies. A thorough evaluation will help identify any imbalances, especially if Hashimoto's is the underlying cause. And, these results will also help you understand your thyroid type.
Once you know where your thyroid stands, it's time to support it effectively. A personalized approach to thyroid health, combined with measures to calm the immune system, can slow down or halt the attack on the thyroid by Hashimoto's. A well-rounded strategy is key to combating hair issues.
Take Control of Your Thyroid Health
All too often, I meet with patients who only half understand their thyroid status because their doctor is only giving them half the story. That is why I created a free Hashimoto’s training to help you determine your thyroid type and support it with a two-fold approach. In this workshop, I help you navigate your way to the full picture so you can advocate for yourself and your health. Sign up here.
Gut Health and Hair Loss
The gut is a powerful player in our overall health, and that includes our hair health. What many people don’t realize is that thyroid health impacts gut health because when your thyroid is off, it can slow down gut transit time, leading to constipation and impaired nutrient absorption. Additionally, leaky gut, where the intestinal lining becomes permeable, can further exacerbate hair problems by allowing unwanted particles into the bloodstream. Balancing thyroid health and gut health goes hand in hand. And, when your gut is healthier, your hair is healthier.
Nutrition and Hair Loss
Even when the gut is healthy, hypothyroidism can still lead to poor nutrient absorption. When thyroid hormone levels are inadequate, the hair follicles may not receive the necessary nutrients for proper growth and maintenance. As a result, hair can become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Key nutrients essential for healthy hair include iron, zinc, and B12.
Iron is crucial for oxygen transport and is necessary for healthy hair growth. A deficiency in iron can lead to hair loss and thinning. Zinc also plays a vital role in hair health, as it helps with tissue growth and repair, including hair follicles. Additionally, B12 supports the production of red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the hair follicles.
To address nutrient deficiencies, consider adding supplements like Ferrochel Iron, liquid B12 such as the Methyl B Complex from Quick Silver Scientific, or the B12 ND from Premier Research Labs. For a zinc deficiency, you could try adding Reacted Zinc to your daily routine. However, it's essential to note that addressing nutrient deficiencies goes beyond supplementation. Ensuring proper digestion and absorption of these nutrients is equally vital. Iron-rich foods, a balanced diet, and a well-functioning gut play crucial roles in maintaining healthy hair and overall well-being.
Thinning Hair Caused by Stress
Stress has a significant impact on our body, including hair health. Whether it's emotional stress or physical stress from illness or inflammation, the body's response can lead to hair problems. Cortisol, known as the stress hormone, can play a role in hair loss, specifically a condition called telogen effluvium. In this condition, the hair follicles enter a resting phase, leading to increased shedding and hair loss.
Managing stress is essential for maintaining healthy hair and overall health. Incorporating stress-reducing techniques into your daily routine can make a significant difference. Mindfulness practices, meditation, acupuncture, and hypnosis are valuable tools for reducing stress levels. If you missed our episodes on hypnosis, be sure to go back and check out episodes 139 and 140. Additionally, phosphatidylserine (I recommend PS 150), a supplement that helps lower cortisol levels, can promote better sleep quality and a calmer state of mind.
Hormonal Shifts and Hair Loss
Hormonal shifts, particularly those experienced during perimenopause and menopause, can influence hair health. As estrogen levels decrease, many women experience hair thinning, texture changes, and sometimes even hair loss. These hormonal imbalances can exacerbate existing thyroid-related symptoms, making it a challenging time for those with Hashimoto's.
Addressing hormonal shifts often involves balancing hormone levels and supporting the body during this transition. Bio-identical hormones and hormone-balancing supplements can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. However, it's essential to make well-informed decisions about hormone replacement therapy and consult with healthcare professionals. Stay tuned and subscribe for more on this in upcoming episodes.
Cause of Hair Loss #5, PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)
For those with PCOS, hair issues are commonly linked to hormonal imbalances, particularly high testosterone and estrogen levels. PCOS is also associated with issues related to blood sugar regulation. Balancing hormones and blood sugar levels are essential components of managing PCOS-related hair problems. One of my favorite supplements for supporting PCOS is Sensitol by Designs for Health. A balanced diet and avoiding dairy may also help with symptoms of PCOS.
Natural Topical Solutions for Improved Hair Health
Incorporating natural oils like Homa, Amla, or Argan for hair oiling can help combat dryness and brittleness. Hair oiling is a beneficial practice where natural oils are applied to the hair and left for an extended period before shampooing. This can nourish the hair and promote overall hair health.
Choosing hair care products wisely is also crucial for maintaining healthy hair. Avoid chemical hair dyes, as they can harm the hair follicles and leach into your body. Instead, opt for natural hair dye alternatives (learn more about what I use in episodes 121 and 142).
Topical serums with essential oils like rosemary or basil can promote hair growth and rejuvenate hair follicles.
Positive Mindset and Good Hair
Mindset is a powerful tool for addressing hair issues and overall health. Visualizing your desired outcome and focusing on positive thoughts can influence your body's response. Remember, your body hears everything your brain is thinking, so maintaining a positive mindset can have a significant impact on your journey to better hair and well-being.
Next Steps
Hair issues can be a reflection of underlying health imbalances, and addressing them can lead to positive changes in your overall health and well-being. Remember to consider thyroid and Hashimoto's, nutrient deficiencies, stress management, hormonal shifts, and PCOS as possible contributors to hair problems. Don't
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What Is Candida?
Candida is a type of fungus/yeast that resides primarily in our intestinal tract and mucus membranes. Interestingly, it's not something our bodies aim to completely eliminate because it serves some beneficial functions. Candida plays a role in stimulating our immune response and acts as nourishment for probiotics, those helpful bacteria we've all become familiar with thanks to commercials. Probiotics, in turn, regulate the pH balance in our gut, ensuring proper digestion and intestinal motility. They also assist in synthesizing vitamins, absorbing nutrients, and breaking down fibers from our diet into essential nutritional substances.
What You Need to Know about Candida and Probiotics
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As soon as you find out that you have a thyroid issue, or that you’re diagnosed with Hashimoto's, your instinct is to learn as much as you can. As the internet becomes more and more crowded with information, it can be so difficult to find useful information. And, it can be hard to determine who to trust as you try to navigate your way to overcoming your Hashimoto’s and hyperthyroid symptoms.
I know because I was once in this position and because I’ve spent the last decade helping Hashimoto’s and hypothyroid patients regain their health.
A lot has changed in this time - and more changes are coming (more on that at the end of these show notes) but over the years, I’ve discovered that there are 5 key drivers of success when it comes to overcoming your thyroid issues and Hashimoto’s symptoms. I share them in this episode along with a big announcement about this show and support for anyone dealing with autoimmunity, Hashimoto’s, and hypothyroidism.
The 5 Keys to Overcoming Hashimoto’s
These five proven strategies have made a huge difference for me and many of my clients struggling with Hashimoto's.
1. Diet: Balancing Blood Sugar Is Key
It all starts with food! While everyone's needs are unique, there's one common thread: balanced blood sugar. Eating a balanced diet with all the macronutrients – carbs, proteins, and fats – is crucial. Avoid blood sugar spikes by avoiding excessive carbs at once and pair your meals with protein and healthy fats. Remember, stress can be physical too! Unbalanced blood sugar creates stress on the body, hindering progress.
2. Clean Eating: Ditching Chemicals and Going Organic
Our world is full of chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. Research shows these chemicals can negatively impact our health. So, the cleaner you eat, the better. Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods straight from the earth. Consider going organic, especially for the "Dirty Dozen" – the foods most heavily laden with pesticide residues (check the Environmental Working Group's list). Organic meats and dairy are also beneficial to avoid added hormones and antibiotics.
3. Identify and Address Food Sensitivities
Gluten is a common culprit for many with Hashimoto's. Not everyone needs to be gluten-free, but some may have the DQ2 and DQ8 genes, making gluten processing difficult. When you consume gluten, even without immediate symptoms, the immune system attacks it. This can lead to accidental attacks on the thyroid due to molecular similarities between gluten and thyroid molecules (cross-reactivity).
I personally struggled with gluten for years, but identifying it as a trigger made a significant difference. Consider exploring food sensitivities to see what might be hindering your progress.
4. Targeted Supplements for Personalized Support
Supplements can be extremely helpful, but a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't work. Our immune triggers and thyroid types vary. However, some supplements have been particularly beneficial for me and my clients:
- SPM (Specialized Proresolving Mediators): Helps reduce inflammation and calm the immune system.
- Glutathione: An amazing antioxidant that supports detoxification and promotes immune balance. I recommend the APEX Trizoma Glutathione brand for its liquid form and good taste.
- Vitamin D: Another immune balancer and natural anti-inflammatory. I recommend Designs for Health's Vitamin D Synergy or Vitamin D Supreme.
- Remember: These are just a few suggestions. It's important to find what works best for you.
5. Calm the Nervous System
The nervous system has a powerful influence on the immune system. A calmer nervous system translates to a more balanced immune system. Here are some ways to achieve this:
- Meditation
- Movement
- Visualization
- Reframing negative thoughts
- Releasing negativity
- Setting positive intentions
- Affirmations
- Faith
- Mantras
- Self-worth exercises (like clearing feelings of "not enoughness")
I find meditation and movement particularly helpful. Experiment and find what works for you.
Bonus Tip #1: Building a Morning Practice Can Make a Big Difference
Mornings can be tough, but incorporating a self-care routine can shift the entire day. I recommend starting your day a little earlier, even before the kids wake up (believe me, I get it, I'm not a morning person either!).
The book "The Miracle Morning" by Hal Elrod offers great tips on establishing a morning practice and provides ideas to optimize your early-start time. It’s hard to believe but the benefits of improved sleep quality and stress reduction outweigh the initial sacrifice of a little extra sleep.
Bonus Tip #2: Increase Your Capacity to Receive
This may sound surprising, but it's incredibly powerful. We all want optimal health, vibrant energy, and freedom from Hashimoto's. But sometimes, we struggle to allow ourselves to truly receive these things.
My question for you is, can you allow all of the things you picture when you see yourself in optimal health? Take a moment and really feel this question in your body. How much good health can you really receive without feeling like, ‘Oh, gosh, this is too much’? All the things that you want to be able to do when you are feeling better; when you have more energy; when you lose that weight – how much of that joy can you actually allow and take in?
This might feel like a strange concept, but explore it. Notice any tightness or resistance in your body when you imagine complete freedom from symptoms. Do you feel undeserving of such good health?
We often have subconscious beliefs about deservingness. We may feel good things like joy, love, and health need to be earned. This can block our ability to receive the very things we desire.
You’ve heard the stories about lottery winners who lose their winnings quickly. This is often due to a deep-seated feeling of not deserving it. They sabotage their own success.
The same can happen with health. If you don't feel deserving of good health, your nervous system won't feel safe receiving it. This can lead to unconscious sabotage of your healing journey.
Learning to receive is crucial for overcoming Hashimoto's and any chronic health issues. I have entire programs dedicated to overcoming these blocks: "Clear Your Thyroid Blocks" and my signature program "Thyroid Mystery Solved." You can find more information on my website … which brings me to my important announcement!
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