Hair today, gone tomorrow?

Have you noticed more hair in your hairbrush lately? Perhaps your ponytail doesn't feel quite as thick, your part seems a little wider, or your hair just doesn't have the fullness it once did.

Thinning hair and increased shedding are common concerns for women during perimenopause and menopause, while we often talk about hot flashes, sleep disturbances, weight changes and mood swings during this stage of life, hair changes don't always get the attention it deserves.

For many women, it can be another reminder that their bodies are changing.

But what's actually happening and what can be done about it?

Hormones

Estrogen helps keep hair in its growth phase, allowing it to grow faster and stay on your head longer. As estrogen levels naturally decline, hair growth slows down and follicles shrink, leading to thinner strands and increased shedding.

The thyroid also plays an important role in regulating the metabolism of hair follicles. When thyroid function is either too low or too high, it can affect hair texture, strength and new growth. During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal fluctuations can also influence stress responses and sometimes overlap with symptoms of thyroid imbalance.

Stress

Stress can be a significant contributor to hair loss. Elevated cortisol can push more hair follicles into a resting phase, causing increased shedding. Chronic stress can also disrupt sleep, digestion and nutrient absorption, making it harder for your hair follicles to get the nourishment they need to stay healthy.

Metabolism and Nutrition

During perimenopause and menopause hormonal changes can influence how efficiently your body delivers oxygen and nutrients to your tissues, including your scalp. Hair follicles rely on a steady supply of nutrients to support healthy growth.

When metabolic health, nutrient availability or hormonal balance is disrupted, hair follicles may receive less of the support they need. Over time, this can contribute to finer, weaker hair and increased shedding. It’s important to nourish your body with the right foods to support healthy hair growth.

Five Ways to Support Healthy Hair

1. Include good-quality protein with each meal. Hair is primarily made up of the protein keratin.

2. Eat a variety of colourful vegetables and fruits to provide essential vitamins and minerals.

3. Include healthy fats from sources such as avocado, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds.

4. Prioritise sleep as it gives your body time to repair, restore and regulate important hormones. Reduce caffeine, especially later in the day.

5. Manage stress:

• Practise deep breathing or gentle breathwork.

• Try restorative yoga, stretching or meditation.

• Get outside for a daily walk and some fresh air.

• Make time for activities you enjoy.

• Spend time with friends and people who make you feel good – this is particularly important!

Look Beyond the Hairbrush

Midlife brings plenty of changes, and sometimes our bodies need a little extra attention.

Metabolic Balance takes an individualised approach to nutrition, analysing 36 blood markers to help identify which nutrients your body needs and which foods will provide them.

Remember, healthy hair starts from within. Supporting your body with the right nutrition is a great place to begin.

If you're experiencing persistent hair thinning or increased shedding, book a complimentary call so we can discuss your health goals, nutritional needs and how a personalised approach like Metabolic Balance may help support your overall wellbeing. Please follow the link: Complimentary Clarity Call

If you know someone in perimenopause or menopause who might benefit from this, I would love for you to this with them.