Keto Hair Loss: What to Do about It

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Hair loss can be a distressing side effect for some keto dieters. If you do experience this 
condition, it will not continue forever. Understanding normal hair growth and how diet 
affects it will help you through any temporary hair loss you face.

How Your Hair Grows

Human hair undergoes three phases before shedding. The anogen phase is first and 
longest stage during which the hair grows. This phase normally lasts two to seven 
years. The catagen phase is much shorter – only 10 days -- during which growth slows 
down. Next, the hair enters a three-month resting or telogen phase. New strands begin 
to grow as well. Finally, the hair sheds.

Why You May Be Losing More Hair

At least one-tenth to one-fifth of our hair strands are in the telogen phase at any time. 
Telogen effluvium (TE) is a common type of hair loss that occurs due to a reduction in 
the number of hair follicles growing new hair. Consequently, you will have more dormant 
hair follicles than usual. Significant dietary changes may cause a temporary imbalance 
in hormone levels that affect your entire body, including your hair follicles. As your body 
works to recover from the shock and stress of the changes, you may notice escalated 
hair shedding.

What You Can Do

Your hair is an extension of what you take into your body. When you go “keto”, it is 
essential that you choose from a wide variety of healthy whole foods in your daily diet 
so that you obtain necessary nutrients for overall vitality. While ensuring adequate 
protein intake, be consistent in including low-carb fruits and vegetables to benefit from 
their invaluable fiber, vitamins and minerals. As formidable as TE sounds, it is a 
temporary condition that often corrects itself within a few months.

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