I’m Stressed, But I Think Protein Shakes Are Beneficial to My Hair

Hi,

2006 was a stressful year. I had a lot on my mind and my sleep was disrupted quite a lot. At the same time, I started going to the gym regularly and drinking protein shakes. Towards the latter part of the year I’ve noticed my hair has been thinning more than usual and is now brittle too. I’m a 26 year old male. The ingredients of the powder seem to be beneficial to the hair.

My theories:

1. I’m not taking on enough protein/carbs to rebuild muscle as well as keep my hair healthy.
2. The opposite: the powder is affecting my hair even though the amino acids etc in it seem good for hair.
3. Not enough rest/sleep.
4. None of the above.

If I stop taking on this powder but theory 1 is correct then things will get worse. Is there anyone in the world who can give me a definitive answer? Any advice?

Many thanks

A positive nitrogen balance (achieved with good nutrition) should not impact hair loss, unless you were malnourished in the first place. The high protein intake (from protein shakes) will not help prevent or reverse hair loss.

You are stressed. The four major causes of hair loss in men are:

1. Genes: If you have genetic balding, it should show by mapping out your scalp for miniaturization.
2. Hormones: If your testicles are working, you will have the hormones.
3. Stress: Sounds like you have more than your share of stress. Working out will reduce the stress for many men.
4. Time: The longer the exposure of hormones and stress to the genetically impacted hair, the more the balding pattern will evolve.

These are the patterns that evolve from balding: