Is Hair Thinning the Next Global Pandemic?
According to the Global Alopecia Market, 2.8 billion people will lose their hair from 2016 to 2026. Count them all. 2.8 billion—that’s a lot of unhappy heads.
It’s Not Just a Man’s Problem
While 70% of men will experience hair loss by age 50, recent studies reveal that up to 50% of women face significant hair loss by age 70. Hair loss is often seen as a male issue, but it significantly affects women as well. This misconception has led to a lack of awareness and support for women suffering from this distressing condition. It’s high time we shine a light on this widespread problem that’s keeping pace with worldwide chronic stress, illnesses and toxicities.
Losing your hair can be devastating in a culture that prizes beauty, youth, and appearance. As someone who has experienced hair loss firsthand, I know how tough it can be.
Conventional treatments for hair loss are often fraught with challenges: medications with harsh side effects, painful and expensive procedures, and so-called quick fixes that rarely work. But a simpler solution may be bringing your body into balance and enhancing your nutrition. Before you resort to lifelong medications, costly extensions, or pricey procedures and products, consider a functional, scientific, and nutritional approach to preserve your hair and possibly regain some of what’s been lost.
When to Worry and Don’t Wait
The American Academy of Dermatology states that the average person has upwards of 100,000 individual strands of hair on their scalp alone, meaning losing between 50-100 strands of hair a day is nothing to worry about. This amount of regular hair loss is all part of a normal and natural cycle of hair and is not likely to lead to the development of bald spots on the scalp. But, if a woman notices significant changes in the rate that her hair is growing or sees profound thinning or balding, she may be experiencing a different and more serious form of hair loss. But don’t suffer in silence. That’s because if it progresses to miniaturization of the hair follicles and scarring occurs, it’s nearly impossible to reverse.
Understanding Hair Loss in Women
While there are over 50+ causes of hair loss in women, it can be attributed to key factors including hormonal imbalances, autoimmune and inflammatory conditions, nutritional deficiencies, genetic predisposition, and stressors. Androgenetic alopecia, commonly known as female pattern baldness, is one of the most prevalent forms, characterized by diffuse thinning over the top of the scalp. This type of hair loss is often influenced by hormonal changes, particularly an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels.
Other forms of hair loss include alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks hair follicles, and telogen effluvium, a condition often triggered by stress, illness, or hormonal changes and leading to widespread hair shedding.
The Role of Inflammation and Gut Health on Hair Loss
Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in most types of hair loss (and diseases). Inflammation can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, leading to premature shedding and follicle miniaturization. Gut health plays a pivotal role in managing inflammation. An unhealthy gut can lead to dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability, commonly known as ‘leaky gut’, which allows toxins and inflammatory markers to enter the bloodstream, further exacerbating inflammation and contributing to hair loss.
Nutrient Deficiencies and Absorption Issues
Proper nutrition is vital for maintaining healthy hair. Deficiencies in protein, vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and essential fatty acids can lead to hair loss. However, even with a nutrient-rich diet, poor gut health can impede the absorption of these vital nutrients. Conditions like celiac disease, non-celiac gluten sensitivity, and other gastrointestinal disorders can prevent the body from effectively absorbing nutrients, leading to anemia and other deficiencies that affect hair growth.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances are another significant contributor to hair loss in women. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, post pregnancy, insulin imbalances, and menopause can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones, leading to hair thinning and loss. Estrogen and progesterone play protective roles in hair health, and their decline with aging or stress can make hair more susceptible to thinning.
Stress and Its Impact
Chronic stress or trauma can prematurely push hair follicles into the telogen (resting) phase, leading to increased shedding. This condition, known as telogen effluvium, often occurs 3-4 months after a significant physical or emotional stressor. Chronic stress also contributes to systemic inflammation, poor gut health and hormonal imbalances, creating a vicious cycle that further exacerbates hair loss. According to a study, women leading stressful lives are 11 times more likely to suffer from hair loss.
Addressing Hair Loss Naturally
To effectively manage hair loss, it is essential to address the root causes. This involves:
- Improving Gut Health: A healthy gut can reduce inflammation and improve nutrient absorption. Incorporating probiotics, prebiotics, and a balanced fiber-rich diet can support gut health.
- Ensuring Nutrient Sufficiency & Absorption: A well-balanced diet and appropriate supplements can address nutrient deficiencies critical for hair health.
- Balancing Hormones: Hormonal imbalances can be managed through lifestyle changes, dietary adjustments, and, in some cases, medical interventions.
- Reducing Stress: Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and regular physical activity can help manage stress levels.
Bottom Line
Now is the time for change. Understanding that hair loss is not just a man’s problem is the first step. Understanding that hair loss in women is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive approach, effectively identifying and addressing the underlying root causes to promote healthy hair growth and well-being. Together, armed with knowledge, we’ll rewrite the narrative and ignite a beacon of hope for women worldwide.

Julie’s passion is to transform each client’s health and meet their goals by finding the missing pieces of their health puzzle and providing the right labs, resources, and guidance to empower them for long-term success. She discovered how to do this in time to help her own mother, who is a healthy and thriving breast cancer survivor!