I Lost My Hair After Covid and This is What I Did to Help It Grow Back
I have a secret. One that I was very embarrassed about. It had me hiding under ball caps and beanies for months. Two years ago, I had Covid. I had few symptoms and luckily was feeling better in days. However, one of the fall-outs of having Covid was my hair (pun intended). This started a couple of months after having Covid. I would wake up and there was a ball of hair on my pillow, and there was hair everywhere. I probably lost 30 to 50 percent of my hair. It definitely had me worried.
A visit to the doctor told me about this condition, called acute telogen effluvium. It was a side effect of Covid for some people. According to the National Institutes of Health, acute telogen effluvium is a non-scarring hair loss that usually occurs 3 months after the stressful event that causes hair shedding, and lasts up to 6 months. It can be associated with post-Covid-19 infection. My doctor told me that she had seen some people with this, and that the hair had started to regrow within months.
She did tell me to take good care of my hair and be gentle with it over the next few months, but I also did some research and found that diet and supplements could be helpful. Everyone is different, and you may find something works better than other things. But you should talk to your doctor before taking any supplements.
Understanding Hair Growth
To embark on a journey toward healthier hair, let's first understand the basics. Hair growth is a dynamic process influenced by genetics, nutrition, and overall well-being. The hair growth cycle consists of phases such as anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (resting). Certain nutrients play a pivotal role in supporting this cycle and maintaining healthy locks.
Biotin - The Hair Vitamin
Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is often touted as the go-to supplement for hair health. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for converting nutrients into energy and plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair, skin, and nails. Foods rich in biotin include eggs, nuts, and leafy greens.
Iron - Fueling Follicle Growth
Iron deficiency has been linked to hair loss, making it a crucial nutrient for those aiming to boost hair regrowth. Iron helps carry oxygen to hair follicles, supporting their growth and vitality. Incorporate iron-rich foods like lean meats, beans, and spinach into your diet. If needed, consult with a healthcare professional to determine if iron supplementation is appropriate for you.
Vitamin D - Sunshine for Your Strands
Vitamin D is not only essential for bone health but also plays a role in maintaining healthy hair follicles. Exposure to sunlight and vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish and fortified dairy products can contribute to maintaining optimal levels. If you struggle to get enough vitamin D from natural sources, supplements may be considered under professional guidance.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Nourishing Your Scalp
Healthy scalps are essential for thriving hair, and omega-3 fatty acids contribute to scalp health. Incorporate fatty fish, chia seeds, and flaxseeds into your diet to provide your body with these essential nutrients. Omega-3 supplements are available if you cannot get enough in your diet.
Collagen - A Structural Support
Collagen, a protein that forms the structural foundation of hair, skin, and nails, is gaining popularity as a supplement. Marine collagen, derived from fish, may provide an additional boost to hair health. Many people have found faster hair growth when taking collagen, but always check with your practitioner to see if it is right for you.
If you are continue with struggle with hair loss post-Covid, research shows that it is important to approach it holistically. While supplements can play a supportive role, they are just one piece of the puzzle. A balanced diet, proper hydration, and overall well-being contribute significantly to the health of your locks.
As for me, my hair is back to where it was before Covid. It did take a while, but I found that being gentle with my hair and myself, eating well, getting a satin pillowcase and incorporating supplements into daily routine helped me immensely. And when I started seeing the regrowth, I was relieved!
Before making any changes to your supplement routine, consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that you're on the right track to achieving the hair of your dreams. Here's to nourishing your locks and embracing a journey toward radiant hair regrowth!
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