Wed, Jun-05-02, 15:30
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Forum Founder
Posts: 37,233
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Plan: LC, GF
Stats: 241/188/140
BF:
Progress: 52%
Location: Eastern ON, Canada
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I've been low-carbing at 20 to 30g carbs per day for over 2 years. During the first year, I experienced improved hair texture and growth, and I was born with thin, baby-fine hair. Well, last fall I noticed that my hair was falling out as it normally does, but there was little or no regrowth. Which was totally bizarre, because I make a point to eat lots of protein. I added some supplements which are reported to improve hair growth -- MSM, biotin, extra B complex.
By February, I was really concerned, as I was getting VERY thin on top, almost like male-pattern baldness, which suggested hormone problems. My doctor thought so too, and checked me for adrenal function (which controls production of testosterone and estrogen) .. and my stored iron levels. Well, guess what??? It was my iron levels ... serum ferritin was only 10. It should be at least 50. Iron is required by the hair follicle to grow a new strand of hair. If you're anemic, or if your iron levels are low, your hair will get thin because you're not able to grow adequate new hair to replace the old.
After 4 months, I'm noticing improved new growth with iron supplements. NOTE** - do NOT take supplemental iron without consulting your dr. or health care practitioner. Iron levels that are too high might be harmful to health, especially in men and post-menopause women. Generally, pre-menopausal women will keep iron levels in balance with their monthly blood losses. For younger women who've been following a lowFAT diet for a long time with little or no red meat, and normal to heavy menstrual periods, then low iron levels could be a problem. Get thee to the dr, don't guess
Doreen
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