Foods That Damage Your Hair

  • October 26, 2018
  • Dr. Arthur Zacco

Last updated on August 19, 2025

Foods That Damage Your Hair

If your hair is not in the best health, then your diet may be to blame. A poor diet can ruin your hair even if you have a good regimen. There are several foods that can cause serious damage.

Swordfish

Generally speaking, fish is good for your hair. However, swordfish is one type of fish that you should avoid as much as possible. Swordfish is high in mercury. High levels of mercury can lead to loss.

Sugary Foods

Sugary foods cause your body to produce more insulin. Higher levels of insulin can increase androgen levels in your body. Androgen can cause the follicles to shrink. This can lead to loss.

Diet Soda

Contrary to popular, diet soda is not healthier than regular soda. The artificial sweeteners in diet sodas can lead to loss.

Salty Treats

An occasional salty treat will not hurt you. However, you do not want to overindulge. Experts recommend that you keep your salt consumption to less than 2,300 mg. Excess sodium intake can cause your hair to weaken and shed more.

It is important to note that the salt shaker is not the only source of sodium. Any type of processed food that you eat will have sodium in it. That is why you should opt for fresh foods. When you cook, you can season your foods with herbs and spices instead of salt.

Alcohol

Zinc is a nutrient that is essential for hair health. However, alcohol depletes the amount of zinc in your body. Alcohol can also dehydrate. This can cause your hairs to become brittle and weaken.

Low-Protein Diets

Your hairs is made up of protein. That is why if your diet is low in protein, then they will suffer. Vegetarians are at risk for suffering a protein deficiency. However, there are many vegetarian sources of protein. This includes lentils, tofu, and spinach.

Fast Food

Your busy schedule may cause you to have to eat on the go. However, you should try to avoid fast food as much as possible. Greasy food can make your scalp greasy. Clogged pores can lead to loss.

Pizza

Pizza has a high glycemic index. Any food with a high glycemic index will cause an insulin spike, which will lead to hairs loss. You will also need to limit your consumption of pasta and white bread.

About The Author

About The
Author

Dr Arthur Zacco

Dr. Arthur Zacco has been performing hair transplantation in Wake County, North Carolina, since 1996. With decades of experience in the field, Dr. Zacco has helped countless patients restore their hair and confidence.

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