Iron is a nutritional necessity the general public is rather familiar with, given its prevalence on nutrition labels next to Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and calcium. But can a lack of iron be the cause of your hair loss? 
 
In an article written in the May issue of the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology Leonid Benjamin Trost, MD; Wilma Fowler Bergfeld, MD; and Ellen Calogeras, RD, MPH concluded: "We believe that treatment for hair loss is enhanced when iron deficiency, with or without anemia, is treated." Other theories have stated that when the blood is iron deficient, the body's vital areas take precedent over areas like hair, leaving blood flow to hair follicles behind. Lack of blood flow to hair follicles is a major cause of hair loss. Additionally, many women who have heavy menstrual cycles lose iron during their periods, making them more susceptible to iron-related anemia. 
 
A healthy hair diet consists of a proper daily amount of iron. Here are some iron-rich foods to feed your hair, both before and after a hair transplant procedure. 
 
Cereal
 
Cereal can be a great source of fortified iron, meaning the iron is put into the cereal by manufacturers, as opposed to iron which occurs naturally in food. 
 
Vegetables 
 
Though the iron in vegetables does not digest as well in the body as the iron in meat, many vegetables contain moderate amounts of iron. Sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parsley are particularly high in iron. 
 
Meat
 
Typical supermarket meats such as chicken, pork, and beef contain moderate amounts of iron. Beef usually has the highest iron content out of the three. Liver meat has even more iron concentration than other meat cuts. 
 
Nuts, Seeds, and Legumes
 
Seeds, especially pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds, can be a great source of iron. White beans, lentils, and soy beans have moderate iron amounts, as do peanuts, almonds, and hazelnuts. 
 
Like anything, too much iron is not a good thing. See your doctor to get your recommended daily value. 
 
If you believe an iron deficiency may be the cause of your hair loss, schedule a free consultation with NE Hair by calling 855-5-NEHAIR. We will help you determine the cause of your hair loss and map out a plan to restore your hair back to its natural state.