Can Vitamin B12 Deficiency Cause Hair Loss?
September 21, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, vitamin B12 deficiency can potentially lead to hair loss. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, plays a crucial role in the production of healthy red blood cells, which carry oxygen to the body’s tissues, including the hair follicles. Adequate oxygen supply is essential for the normal growth and maintenance of hair.
When you have a deficiency in vitamin B12, it can result in a condition known as anemia, specifically megaloblastic anemia. Anemia can reduce the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to the hair follicles. This can result in hair thinning, hair loss, and even changes in the texture and color of the hair.
Other symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency may include fatigue, weakness, pale skin, dizziness, and cognitive problems, among others.
It’s important to note that vitamin B12 deficiency is relatively uncommon among individuals who consume a balanced diet that includes animal products (as vitamin B12 is primarily found in animal-based foods). However, certain groups are at a higher risk of developing a deficiency, including:
- Vegans and vegetarians who do not consume animal products.
- Older adults, as the ability to absorb vitamin B12 from food can decline with age.
- Individuals with certain medical conditions that affect the absorption of nutrients in the digestive tract, such as pernicious anemia or gastrointestinal disorders.
- Those taking medications that reduce vitamin B12 absorption, such as certain antacids or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs).
If you suspect you have a vitamin B12 deficiency and are experiencing hair loss or other related symptoms, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and diagnosis. Vitamin B12 deficiency can typically be corrected with dietary changes, oral supplements, or injections, depending on the severity and underlying cause of the deficiency. Once the deficiency is addressed, hair health may improve, but it may take some time for hair to regrow and return to its normal thickness.