Question : I LIVE in a condominium near the Kuala Lumpur city centre. Ever since the earthquake in Indonesia last December, my hair has started to drop more than usual. I was terrified when the building I was in started to shake. Could it be because of the shock or is it my diet, as I often replace my meals with organic rolled oats?
Answer : THINNING of the hair can be due to many reasons such as heredity, hypothyroid, skin disorders, improper hair treatment, poor local circulation, menopause, nutritional deficiencies, a refined diet and stress.
A sudden shock has often been found to cause sudden hair loss or even complete baldness.
Many nutritional deficiencies are also associated with balding. This could be due to a lack of the B vitamins. This is because the refining of whole grains removes a valuable source of many B vitamins.
Taking a B complex is advised as it is used to help digest carbohydrates and provide the body with energy. Stress and shock may deplete the body of these vital vitamins too.
They are needed in the metabolism of fats and protein. They are also essential for the normal functioning of the nervous system and maintenance of muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract and for the health of skin, hair, eyes, mouth and liver. B vitamins also have calming effect, which may be beneficial in your case.
Eat plenty of onions, horseradish, raw green vegetables, carrots, pumpkin seeds, lecithin, wheat germ, celery, lettuce and seafood. Eat only unrefined wholesome food.
You may massage your scalp each day vigorously with your fingertips. Most importantly, learn to relax and manage your stress well.