by Patricia Dance

Created on: April 25, 2007   Last Updated: December 17, 2011

Preventing hair loss in women is a multi-pronged effort. If you approach hair loss from every important aspect, you will stack the deck for your success. It is important to examine diet, hormones, cleansing regimen, and external nutrient requirements. These are all required for healthy hair.

Diet is critical when it comes to hair loss. As hair is made primarily of protein, it is necessary to have a diet that contains sufficient protein. Chicken, beef and lamb from grass-fed animals, and wild fish are good choices. These animal products are high in Omega 3 fats as well as protein, and both are important. The herbs nettles and horsetail contain minerals and B vitamins that contribute to hair health. Place two tablespoons of each herb in a cup, add boiling water, steep for fifteen minutes, strain the herbs, and drink the tea. Broth made from the bones of fish, chicken, beef, or lamb and allowed to simmer for twenty-four hours provides protein and amino acids in the most digestible form and will go a long way to nourishing your "crowning glory". Raw dairy, especially in the form of yogurt or kefir, are good sources of B vitamins and healthy bacteria that feed the body and scalp. The other component to a hair-healthy diet is sea vegetables. Sea vegetables are a nutrient-dense food filled with vitamins, minerals, and iodine which is absolutely necessary for hair growth.

Hormones out of balance are a significant contributor to hair loss. Women should have their thyroid levels checked to rule out hypothyroidism. A low functioning thyroid is a very common reason for female hair loss. The thyroid can be nourished by adding sea vegetables to the diet in the form of powdered kelp and bladderwrack. Many health food stores carry supplements specifically targeted for a low functioning thyroid and are helpful in restoring its function. Other important hormones that need to be addressed are estrogen and testosterone. Homeopathic supplements and herbal tonics can be safely used to restore these declining female hormones.

The use of harsh shampoos, styling aids and hair dryers contribute to hair loss. Use shampoos and condtioners that are free of chemicals like Aubrey Organics, Morrocco Method, and Dr. Hauschka. Air dry your hair as often as possible and save the hair dryer for the very last few minutes. It is good for the scalp to be massaged and brushed every day with a high quality hair brush. Mason Pearson makes a hair brush specifically for thinning hair.

The final piece to add to your hair care regimen is the application of herbal oils to the scalp. Both nettle seed oil and burdock root oil are excellent herbal remedies for hair loss. Apply oil to the scalp at night and wash out in the morning. You can use these oils alternately.

By diligently applying all these suggestions to your routine, you can will go a long ways in preventing female hair loss.

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