Does b12 deficiency cause hair loss
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Vitamin B12 Deficiency and Hair Loss
Introduction to Hair Loss and Nutrient Deficiency
Hair loss is a common issue affecting a significant portion of the population, particularly women. Nutrient deficiencies, including vitamins and minerals, play a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair growth. Among these nutrients, vitamin B12 is essential for cell growth and the overall health of hair follicles.
Impact of Vitamin B12 Deficiency on Hair Loss
Research indicates that vitamin B12 deficiency can contribute to hair loss. A study examining the effects of various nutrient deficiencies on hair loss in pregnant women found that those with severe hair loss during their last two trimesters had significantly lower levels of vitamin B12, among other nutrients like zinc and ferritin 1. This suggests a strong correlation between low vitamin B12 levels and increased hair loss.
Case Study: Reversible Hair Changes Due to Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Further supporting this connection, a case study reported reversible changes in hair pigmentation and premature graying due to vitamin B12 deficiency. The patient, who suffered from pernicious anemia, experienced a return to normal hair color after receiving vitamin B12 treatment 2. This case highlights the potential for hair health to improve with appropriate vitamin B12 supplementation.
Conclusion
In summary, vitamin B12 deficiency is linked to hair loss, particularly in individuals with other underlying health conditions such as pregnancy or pernicious anemia. Ensuring adequate intake of vitamin B12 through diet or supplementation may help mitigate hair loss and promote healthier hair growth.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
Effect of zinc, ferritin, and vitamin B12 deficiency on hair loss in pregnant women
Pregnant women with severe hair loss during their last two trimesters have lower zinc, hemoglobin, PCV, ferritin, and vitamin B12 levels, but not vitamin D or TSH levels.
Rigorous JournalReversible hyperpigmentation of skin and nails with white hair due to vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause reversible hyperpigmentation of skin and nails with premature gray hair, but treatment with intramuscular cyanocobalamin can restore normal pigmentation.
Case ReportREVERSIBLE HYPOPIGMENTATION OF HAIR SECONDARY TO VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY
Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause reversible hypopigmentation of hair in children, with improved general condition and normalizing hemoglobin levels after treatment.
Case ReportSerum ferritin and vitamin D levels should be evaluated in patients with diffuse hair loss prior to treatment
Serum ferritin and vitamin D levels are generally low in patients with diffuse hair loss, suggesting they should be evaluated and supplemented prior to treatment.
Observational StudySerum Vitamin B12 in chronic telogen effluvium patients: A case–control study
Vitamin B12 deficiency is more common in chronic telogen effluvium patients than in controls.
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency affects individuals of all ages, particularly the elderly, and is caused by inadequate intake, bioavailability, or malabsorption, with management relying on B12 supplementation.
Highly CitedThe Role of Vitamins and Minerals in Hair Loss: A Review
Micronutrients play a crucial role in normal hair follicle development and immune cell function, and deficiency may be a modifiable risk factor for alopecia.
Systematic ReviewHighly CitedNutritional Recovery Batwing Dystonia in Infantile Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Injectable B12 treatment for infantile B12 deficiency can cause transient batwing dystonia, potentially due to basal ganglia dysfunction.
Rigorous JournalA Review of Vitamin B12 in Dermatology
Vitamin B12 deficiency and excess can lead to various dermatological manifestations, including hyperpigmentation, hair and nail changes, and oral changes.
Highly CitedVitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to serious clinical consequences, and diagnosis and management require careful consideration of individual factors and dietary habits.
Systematic Review
Very Rigorous JournalHighly Cited