Can Eating Sesame and Vitamin B Help with Hair Loss? - Dermatology

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Alopecia


Hello Dr.
Cheng, I have a slight bald spot on the back of my head.
I've heard from my friends that eating more sesame and vitamin B can help improve this condition.
Is that true? What should I eat more of or less of to reduce hair loss? Thank you.

Hanwen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/12/30

Dr. Zheng Lizhen reply Dermatology


Hello! There is no direct evidence to prove that eating more or less of certain foods can reduce hair loss.
If hair loss is caused by a medical condition, it is necessary to address the underlying disease rather than simply adjusting dietary intake to resolve the issue.
Best wishes for health from Dr.
Cheng Li-Chen, Department of Dermatology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2002/12/30

More Info


When it comes to hair loss, many people seek dietary solutions, believing that certain foods or vitamins can help mitigate the problem. In your case, you mentioned hearing that consuming sesame seeds and vitamin B could improve hair loss. While it is true that nutrition plays a role in overall health, including hair health, the relationship between specific foods or vitamins and hair loss is not straightforward.

Firstly, let's address the role of nutrition in hair health. Hair is primarily made of a protein called keratin, and adequate protein intake is essential for hair growth. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support hair health. For instance, deficiencies in certain nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and E, can contribute to hair loss. Vitamin B complex, particularly biotin (B7), is often touted for its potential benefits for hair health. Some studies suggest that biotin supplementation may help those with a deficiency, but there is limited evidence to support its effectiveness in individuals without such deficiencies.

Sesame seeds are a good source of several nutrients, including vitamin E, magnesium, and calcium, which are beneficial for overall health. They also contain lignans, which have antioxidant properties. While these nutrients can contribute to a healthy diet, there is no direct scientific evidence that eating sesame seeds will specifically prevent or treat hair loss.

It's important to recognize that hair loss can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and stress. For example, androgenetic alopecia (male or female pattern baldness) is a common hereditary condition that is not significantly influenced by diet. Other conditions like alopecia areata, thyroid disorders, or scalp infections may also lead to hair loss and require specific medical treatment.

If you are experiencing hair loss, it is crucial to identify the underlying cause. Consulting a dermatologist or a healthcare professional can provide you with a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They may recommend blood tests to check for nutritional deficiencies or hormonal imbalances, and based on the findings, they can suggest appropriate interventions.

In terms of dietary recommendations, while there is no magic food that will prevent hair loss, maintaining a well-balanced diet rich in whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can support overall health and potentially benefit hair health. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fish, walnuts, and flaxseeds), antioxidants (like berries and leafy greens), and proteins (like eggs and legumes) are particularly beneficial.

In conclusion, while sesame seeds and vitamin B may contribute to a healthy diet, they are not guaranteed solutions for hair loss. A comprehensive approach that includes proper medical evaluation, a balanced diet, and possibly medical treatments may be necessary to effectively address hair loss. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or starting new supplements, especially if you are experiencing noticeable hair loss.

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