Sugar
Sugar is the collective term for soluble carbohydrates with a sweet taste, many of which are used in various foods. When these carbohydrates are consumed, they are digested and broken down into glucose, which serves as the primary source of energy for most tissues in the human body. Glucose is the preferred energy source for red blood cells, the central nervous system, and the brain.
Is it effective against hair loss?
When it comes to the connection between sugar and hair, there is currently no evidence to support the idea that consuming sugar as a treatment for alopecia can have any positive impact on hair health.
In fact, excessive sugar intake is known to be a potential contributor to hair loss. The leading theory suggests that high levels of glucose in the bloodstream can lead to inflammation throughout the body, particularly in the hair follicles.
Inflammation is a significant factor that exacerbates hair loss, and it’s worth noting that almost all types of alopecia involve chronic inflammation, including androgenetic alopecia.
Numerous studies, like the one mentioned here, have shown that individuals with type 2 diabetes are more frequently affected by androgenetic alopecia.
There’s another aspect related to excessive sugar consumption: insulin resistance. According to some studies, a strong link exists between insulin resistance and androgenetic alopecia (source) (source).
The real question we should be asking in this context is: does a lack of sugar cause hair loss?
The answer is that there is no evidence to suggest that a lack of sugar would result in hair loss. Moreover, it is exceptionally rare to find people with a sugar deficiency, as sugar is present in nearly all foods.
So, if someone has speculated that a lack of sugar might be causing their hair loss, it would be advisable to explore other potential causes.
Closing thoughts and verdict
Sugar is not a remedy for hair loss; in fact, excessive consumption of sugar can contribute to hair loss. Please, don’t consider using sugar as a treatment for alopecia; it’s not a viable solution.
Precautions & side effects
These side effects can occur with excessive sugar consumption:
- May damage the liver, teeth, and bones.
- May lead to obesity and diabetes.
- May cause acne and inflammation.
- May increase the risk of heart problems.
-
May result in fatigue and mood swings.