Why Is My Hair Thinning? Common Causes and How to Restore Hair Health

Hair health is more than a cosmetic concern, it can be an important indicator of what’s happening inside your body. If you’ve noticed increased shedding, a change in hair texture, or a thinning hairline, it may be worth exploring the underlying causes. By taking a closer look, you can uncover factors that may be affecting your hair and overall well-being.

Why Hair Loss Happens

First, let’s bust a myth: hair loss isn’t just about aging or bad shampoo. It can be linked to stress, hormones, or even a nutrient deficiency.

‍Dr. Suzanne Wolf, Connected Health’s concierge primary care provider, also specializes in women’s health (though hair thinning and loss affect men as well), weighs in on the topic.

She explains that telegen effuvium is one of the most common causes of hair loss in women. This condition is often triggered by:

• Hormonal shifts
• Thyroid imbalances
• Rapid weight loss
• Emotional or physical stress
• Iron, zinc, biotin, B12, or protein deficiencies

Dr. Wolf notes that certain medications and autoimmune conditions can also contribute. Understanding the underlying cause of your hair thinning is the first step toward effective treatment.

Dr. Wolf’s Nutritional Must-Haves

According to Dr. Wolf, getting your nutrient levels right can make a big difference in improving hair density and slowing hair loss. Here’s what she recommends:

• Zinc - 25 mg daily (the Pure ONE multivitamin contains this optimal dose)
• Biotin + Vitamin B12 - essential B vitamins for supporting healthy hair
• Iron - best taken gently every other day, as the ONE multi doesn't include it
• Vitamin D - vital for follicle and immune health
• Antioxidants - vitamins A, C, E, and selenium help fight inflammation and promote scalp health

Many of these nutrients are available in high-quality supplements like ONE that we sell over the counter in our on-site boutique pharmacy, making it easier to stay consistent.

Fueling Hair Growth: How Nutrition Impacts Your Hair

Rita de Freitas, RDN, Connected Health’s registered dietitian, explains the nutritional factors that can contribute to hair loss and how diet can help.

Rita explains, "vitamin deficiencies are one of the main contributors to hair loss. Incorporating more nuts, seeds, salmon, and other fatty fish into your diet can help. Broccoli, eggs, spinach, shellfish, and grass-fed meat also provide important nutrients that support hair health. Adequate protein is essential, not just for hair growth, but also for proper nutrient absorption."

“I also recommend testing for deficiencies through micronutrient testing, such as SpectraCell or Nutreval,” Rita says.“Sometimes, there may be a lack of digestive enzymes or hydrochloric acid (stomach acid), which can contribute to difficulty digesting protein as well as fats and carbohydrates.”

Her final takeaway: “Eating a well-balanced diet, managing stress, and supporting thyroid health all play a role in preventing hair loss. If you have a thyroid condition, monitor it regularly — and if you haven’t been checked, ask your provider for a blood panel or reach out to us here at Connected Health.

5 Key Takeaways for Healthier Hair

1. Identify the cause first: Hair loss can stem from stress, hormones, nutrient deficiencies, medical conditions, or medications.
2. Mind your nutrients: Zinc, biotin, B12, iron, vitamin D, and antioxidants are essentical for supporting hair health
3. Eat for your hair: Include protein-rich foods, healthy fats, and vitamin-packed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and eggs.
4. Test, don't guess: Micronutrient testing can uncover deficiencies or absoption issues that might be affecting your hair.
5. Look at the big picture: Managing stress, supporting thyroid health, and working with your healthcare team can make a lasting difference.

Conclusion

Your hair is often a reflection of your overall health. By understanding the root cause of thinning — whether it’s hormonal changes, nutrient gaps, stress, or another underlying factor — you can take steps that make a real difference. Partnering with trusted providers, getting the right tests, and supporting your body through balanced nutrition and targeted supplementation can help you protect and restore your hair’s health.

If you’ve noticed changes in your hair and want to get to the bottom of it, our team at Connected Health can help you uncover the “why” and create a plan that supports you from the inside out.