Study Finds Intermittent Fasting Impairs Hair Growth

Recent studies indicate that intermittent fasting, a popular dietary approach for weight loss and metabolic health, may negatively impact hair growth. Research conducted on mice showed that those on intermittent fasting diets had significantly slower hair regrowth compared to those with unrestricted eating, with the fasting regimen impairing hair follicle stem cells. A small clinical trial involving humans also revealed that hair regrowth was slower in individuals practicing an 18:6 fasting regimen. While intermittent fasting has recognized health benefits, experts caution that it could lead to unintended consequences, such as thinner and shorter hair. There is a call for further research to explore the mechanisms by which fasting affects hair growth in humans. Additionally, dietary factors like sugar intake have been linked to hair loss, highlighting the complex relationship between diet and hair health.