Hydration, Gut Health, and Hair Strength

Strong, healthy hair requires more than the right shampoo. Hydration and gut health play crucial roles in hair growth and quality.

Hydration and Hair

Hair is about 25% water. Dehydration affects: - Hair shaft flexibility (dry, brittle hair) - Scalp health - Nutrient delivery to follicles

Signs of Dehydration Affecting Hair - Dry, frizzy hair - Lack of shine - Increased breakage - Dry, itchy scalp

Gut Health and Hair

Your gut affects hair through: - Nutrient absorption - Inflammation levels - Hormone metabolism - Immune function

Gut Issues That Affect Hair - Celiac disease - IBD - SIBO - Food intolerances - Dysbiosis

Signs Gut Health Is Affecting Hair - Hair loss with GI symptoms - Nutrient deficiencies despite good diet - Bloating, irregular bowels - Autoimmune hair loss

Testing for Gut Issues

• Celiac panel (tTG-IgA, total IgA)
• Inflammatory markers (CRP, ESR)
• Nutrient levels (B12, iron, zinc, vitamin D)
• Complete blood count

Action Steps

1. Ensure adequate hydration 2. Address any GI symptoms 3. Test for celiac disease if hair loss is unexplained 4. Consider gut healing protocols if other signs present

References

• Pham, C. T., et al. (2017). Association between celiac disease and alopecia areata: a systematic review and meta-analysis. *Nutrients*, 9(9), 970.
• Christensen, M., & Maibach, H. I. (2004). Hair shaft moisture. *Journal of Cosmetic Science*, 55(3), 263-271.