Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Hair Loss
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient that is essential for the healthy functioning of the body. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is involved in various metabolic processes such as the formation of blood cells, the functioning of the nervous system and DNA synthesis. Because it is a storable vitamin, when we consume more vitamin B12 than our daily intake, it can be stored in the liver for later use.
Vitamin B12 is abundant in foods of animal origin. Foods such as red meat, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products are rich in vitamin B12. Foods of plant origin do not contain vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Hair Loss
Vitamin B12 deficiency is a factor that can lead to hair loss. When our body is deficient in vitamin B12, the healthy development and function of hair follicles can be negatively affected. This can lead to weakened hair follicles and therefore hair loss.
Vitamin B12 is essential for the regeneration and growth of hair cells. In case of deficiency, hair follicles are not provided with sufficient nutrients and hair weakens and begins to fall out. Vitamin B12 deficiency can also lead to anemia. Anemia causes the hair to look pale, the roots to weaken and fall out.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency usually develop slowly and may go unnoticed at first. However, over time, the following symptoms may appear:
- Rapid and excessive hair loss
- Thinning and weakening of hair
- Hair discoloration (paleness)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Anemia (anemia)
- Disorders in the nervous system (tingling, numbness, loss of sensation)
- Sores or inflammation in the mouth
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
Although these symptoms are common symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency, hair loss is one of the common effects of this deficiency. If a person has one or more of these symptoms, vitamin B12 levels should be checked.
Treatment Options for Hair Loss Caused by Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Treatment of hair loss due to vitamin B12 deficiency primarily aims to eliminate the underlying cause. The following treatment options can be applied for this:
Vitamin B12 supplementation: Under the supervision of a doctor, normalization of vitamin B12 levels through dietary supplements or injections containing vitamin B12 can help stop hair loss.
Dietary adjustment: Increasing the consumption of vitamin B12-rich foods such as red meat, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products can contribute to eliminating the deficiency.
Iron supplementation: Since vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, iron supplementation may also be necessary.
Hair care products: Special shampoos, serums and sprays can be used to reduce hair loss.
Hair treatments: Medical interventions such as laser treatments, stem cell therapies or hair transplantation can be effective in reducing hair loss.
Frequently asked questions about vitamin B12 deficiency and hair loss
- How to recognize that vitamin B12 deficiency causes hair loss?
Hair loss due to vitamin B12 deficiency usually manifests itself as rapid and excessive hair loss. In addition, symptoms such as thinning, weakening and paleness of the hair can also be observed.
- What are other factors other than vitamin B12 deficiency that can cause hair loss?
Other factors that can lead to hair loss include stress, hormonal changes, medication, malnutrition, thyroid disorders, iron deficiency and over-processed hair. Therefore, all underlying causes of hair loss should be investigated.
- How long does vitamin B12 supplementation reduce hair loss?
The effect of vitamin B12 supplementation in reducing hair loss may vary from person to person. Generally, a significant improvement can be observed between 3-6 months. However, it may take time for vitamin B12 values to return to normal and hair follicles to become healthy. B12 supplements used regularly under the supervision of a doctor are effective in reducing hair loss.
