Understanding Hair Loss Post-Bariatric Surgery
Hair thinning or loss is a common occurrence observed among patients post-bariatric surgery, with over half of the patients reporting this side effect. If you are planning to undergo surgery, you might wonder about the reasons, its implications, how long it lasts, and the possible preventive measures.
Understanding Why Hair Thins or Falls Out
Hair growth follows two primary phases - the anagen phase (growth stage) and the telogen phase (resting stage). Generally, the telogen phase accounts for 10-15% of the total hair cycle. However, following surgical weight loss, this balance often shifts towards the telogen phase, causing excessive hair shedding and noticeable thinning.
Factors that contribute to this shift include:
- Trauma or shock triggered by the surgery
- Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM)
- Deficiencies in vitamins or minerals
- Relationship Between Rapid Weight Loss and Thinning Hair
- Post-surgery, patients typically exhibit rapid weight loss due to a severe energy deficit. It is necessary for weight loss but can also lead to hair thinning or loss due to the significant calorie deficit.
While this might seem daunting, it's essential to focus on weight loss management by following a plan agreed upon by you, your surgeon, and your nutritionist.
The Role of Protein in Hair Loss Prevention
A high-protein diet is usually advocated after weight-loss surgery. This supports a robust immunity, promotes healing, increases metabolism, and curbs hunger pangs. Inability to meet the protein requirement might aggravate the risk and severity of hair loss.
Achieving a daily intake of 60 grams or more of protein can be challenging due to factors such as difficulty swallowing, unappetizing products, limited product availability, and a reduced food intake. The BariatricPal Store attempts to address this issue by offering an array of high-protein, easy-to-consume, and tasty products.
Vitamins and Minerals associated with Hair Loss
There's a correlation between hair health and certain vitamins and minerals, many of which are typically deficient in weight-loss surgery patients. These include Vitamin D, Biotin, Vitamin B12, Vitamin A, Zinc, and Iron. Supplements for these deficiencies can be sourced from our store.
To protect against micronutrient deficiencies, a solid multivitamin supplement formulated to cater to the common deficiencies is usually recommended post-surgery. Your surgeon might also suggest specific supplements high in one or two vitamins or minerals.
Taking these supplement can sometimes be challenging, however, there are different forms of supplements to cater to your comfort and convenience. Your healthcare provider can guide you to select the most suitable supplement.
Handling Hair Loss Post-Surgery
Though distressing, hair loss is usually temporary and might resolve within six months. Joining a support group can provide reassurance and comfort during this period. Adhering to your doctor's advice regarding diet, self-care, protein, multivitamin intake, and additional supplements is the best way to support hair regrowth and your overall health.
Focusing on maintaining good nutrition before and after the surgery, including protein and vitamins, is key to managing hair loss. Check with your healthcare provider for specific needs, then find them in the BariatricPal Store.
