Category: Natural Hair

By Naomie Monestime – Registered Dietitian, Nutritionist and Dr. Brenda Davis PhD

Why Your Next Salon Visit Might Start with a Blood Test”

You’ve probably heard it all before. “Use this miracle oil!” “Try this deep conditioning treatment!” But what if I told you the secret to combating dry hair for African American women might be hiding in your blood?

Now, you might be thinking, “What does my blood have to do with my hair?” Well, buckle up, because we’re about to dive into some fascinating research that could change the way you approach your hair care routine.

A groundbreaking study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found something unexpected. It turns out that low ferritin levels – a protein that stores iron in your body – could be the culprit behind those stubborn dry locks.

But wait, there’s more. The study showed that African American women, in particular, were more likely to have low ferritin levels compared to other ethnic groups. Now you’re probably wondering, “How does this affect my hair?”

Here’s where it gets interesting. Ferritin plays a crucial role in hair growth and health. When levels are low, it can lead to:

1. Brittle, dry hair

2. Increased hair shedding

3. Slower hair growth

You might be thinking, “Okay, but how do I know if my ferritin levels are low?” Great question! The only way to know for sure is through a blood test. But don’t worry, it’s a simple procedure that your doctor can easily perform.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. “If low ferritin is the problem, what’s the solution?” Well, here’s where things get exciting. Researchers found that increasing ferritin levels through iron supplementation or dietary changes could significantly improve hair health and reduce dryness.

But hold on, before you rush out to buy iron supplements, there’s something important you need to know. Too much iron can be harmful, so it’s crucial to consult with your doctor before starting any supplementation regimen.

So, what can you do right now? Here are some iron-rich foods you might want to consider adding to your diet:

Among plant-based foods, legumes and seeds are some of the highest in iron. Here are a few of the top contenders I would recommend:

1. Lentils: Cooked lentils provide about 6.6 mg of iron per cup.
2. Spinach: Cooked spinach contains about 6.4 mg of iron per cup.
3. Pumpkin Seeds: These seeds offer around 2.5 mg of iron per ounce.
4. Quinoa: Cooked quinoa contains about 2.8 mg of iron per cup.
5. Chickpeas: Cooked chickpeas provide about 4.7 mg of iron per cup.

While these foods are rich in iron, lentils and spinach typically top the list for their high iron content in a non-processed, plant-based diet.

But here’s the kicker – simply eating these foods might not be enough. Your body needs vitamin C to properly absorb iron. So, try pairing these iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources like citrus fruits or bell peppers.

Now, you might be wondering, “Is this the end-all solution to dry hair?” Not necessarily. While addressing ferritin levels can make a significant difference, it’s still important to maintain a good hair care routine.

But here’s the thing – by tackling the root cause (pun intended), you might find that your usual hair care products work even better than before.

So, what’s the takeaway here? The next time you’re frustrated with dry, brittle hair, remember that the solution might not be in a bottle on the shelf, but in your blood. Who knew that the key to luscious locks could be hiding in such an unexpected place?

Now, I’m curious – have you ever considered the link between your diet and your hair health? Let me know in the comments below!

Remember, every head of hair is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. But armed with this knowledge, you’re one step closer to unlocking the secret to healthier, more moisturized hair. And isn’t that worth exploring?