Hair loss – understanding the causes and supporting healthy hair growth

Hair loss is a sensitive topic for many people. Whether it occurs after surgery, during a period of dieting, due to hormonal changes or illness, noticing more hair in the brush or shower can be worrying and emotionally challenging.
The good news is that in many cases hair loss is temporary and related to factors that can be influenced. A balanced diet, sufficient nutrient intake and a healthy lifestyle can help support the structure of the hair and the natural hair growth cycle.

In this article we explain the most common causes of hair loss and show ways to support your hair from within.

Hair loss after bariatric surgery

After bariatric procedures such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, many people experience increased hair loss a few months after surgery. This typically occurs about three to six months after the procedure.
The reasons are usually a combination of different factors:

• rapid weight loss
• changes in nutrient absorption
• physical stress caused by surgery
• significantly reduced calorie intake

During this phase the body focuses primarily on vital functions. From a biological perspective, hair is not considered essential for survival, which means that hair growth can temporarily slow down.
For most people this process stabilizes again over time, especially when attention is paid to adequate intake of protein, vitamins and minerals.

Hair loss during GLP-1 therapy and rapid weight loss

Hair loss can also occur in people using medications from the GLP-1 receptor agonist group or in those who lose weight quickly through dieting.
In most cases the cause is not the medication itself but rather:

• rapid weight loss
• reduced calorie intake
• possible shortage of certain nutrients

When the body receives significantly less energy and nutrients than usual, it may enter a type of conservation mode. During this time hair growth cycles may shorten, causing more hairs to enter the resting phase and fall out at the same time.
Adequate intake of protein, vitamins and trace elements is therefore particularly important.

Hair loss due to hormonal changes (aging, perimenopause and menopause)

As people age, hormone levels naturally change. Many women notice thinning hair or increased hair shedding during menopause.
Hormonal shifts can shorten the growth phase of hair and alter the hair structure. Hair often becomes finer or loses some of its volume.
Possible contributing factors include genetic predisposition, nutritional status, stress levels and sleep quality.

Hair loss related to illness or physical stress

Certain illnesses or physically demanding life events can also trigger hair loss. Examples include:

• infections or fever
• chronic illness
• severe stress
• surgery or physical trauma

In many of these situations the condition is known as telogen effluvium. This means that a larger number of hairs move into the resting phase at the same time and fall out several weeks or months later.
In many cases this condition is temporary and improves once the body has recovered.

Hair loss, brittle nails and dry skin

Hair loss often does not occur on its own. Many people also notice brittle nails or dry, sensitive skin at the same time. Hair, skin and nails are made from similar structural proteins and often react together when the body undergoes changes.
If the body receives less energy, experiences hormonal shifts or has limited availability of certain nutrients, this can affect hair growth, nail strength and skin condition simultaneously.
A balanced diet, sufficient protein intake and an adequate supply of essential micronutrients can help support these natural structures from within.

What can help support hair growth?

Although there is no miracle solution that completely prevents hair loss, several measures can help support hair structure and the natural growth process.

1. Adequate protein intake

Hair is largely made of keratin, a type of protein. Ensuring adequate protein intake is therefore an important foundation for healthy hair. This is especially important after bariatric surgery or during periods of dieting.

2. Important vitamins and minerals

Certain micronutrients may support normal hair health, including:

• biotin
• zinc
• selenium
• B-vitamins
• vitamin D

A balanced diet is the best foundation. In certain life stages targeted supplementation may be helpful.

3. Reduce stress and get enough sleep

Chronic stress can influence hormonal balance and may affect the hair growth cycle. Regular physical activity, sufficient sleep and stress-management strategies can help support overall balance in the body.

4. Specialized supplements for hair

For people with increased nutritional needs, specialized supplements may provide additional support. Products such as WLS Hair Wonder or Bariatric Fusion Hair Skin & Nails Rejuvenator contain combinations of vitamins and minerals designed to support the nutritional needs of hair, skin and nails.

Important to know

Dietary supplements are not medicines and cannot completely prevent or cure hair loss. However, they may help support the body’s nutrient supply and contribute to healthy hair growth as part of an overall balanced lifestyle.
Many people report that with consistent use, improvements in hair density, hair structure or new hair growth may become noticeable, particularly when combined with a balanced diet and healthy habits.

Patience is important

Hair grows slowly, and even when nutrient intake improves it can take several months before visible changes appear.
A long-term combination of:

• balanced nutrition
• adequate protein intake
• a healthy lifestyle
• targeted micronutrient support

can help support the body’s natural hair growth processes.

Tip: If hair loss suddenly becomes very severe or persists for a long period of time, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.