Intermittent fasting, an eating pattern that involves time-restricted eating, has been linked to various health benefits, including weight loss and reduced inflammation. However, a new study suggests that it may also slow down hair growth in both human and animal models.
Researchers found that mice fed intermittent fasting patterns of 16:8 or alternate-day fasting had only partial hair regrowth after 90 days, compared to the control group that had regrown most of its hair after just 30 days. The study’s lead author, Bing Zang, explains that this is due to the oxidative stress caused by the body switching from using glucose to fat during intermittent fasting.
In humans, a similar study found that following an intermittent fasting diet with 18 hours of fasting resulted in a 18% reduction in hair growth speed compared to those eating a regular diet. However, Zang notes that the human population is heterogeneous and may respond differently to intermittent fasting, resulting in varying effects on hair follicle stem cells.
The study’s findings emphasize the need for more research into the potential effects of intermittent fasting on hair loss and regrowth. Monique Richard, a registered dietitian nutritionist, advises readers to prioritize optimal nutrition and assess their dietary intake with a registered dietitian to ensure they are getting the necessary nutrients for hair growth.
Key nutrients essential for hair growth include protein, vitamins A, C, D, E, B vitamins, minerals such as iron, selenium, and zinc, and essential fatty acids. Richard recommends incorporating foods rich in these nutrients into a balanced diet, including spinach, eggs, beans, fatty fish and seafood, nuts like walnuts and Brazil nuts, seeds, and brightly colored produce.
While intermittent fasting may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain health conditions or genetic predispositions, it can still offer benefits when done correctly. As Richard notes, “it’s just a matter of being aware of the potential effects and making informed choices to prioritize your overall health and well-being.”
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/intermittent-fasting-may-slow-hair-growth-study