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Hair loss and thyroid gland
I am 52 and have been experiencing some hair loss for the past year which I attribute to the menopause. My hairdresser has suggested I take kelp. Would this help and are there any other supplements you think I should take? I already take calcium (400mg) and vitamin C (500mg).
The hair loss may be caused by an underactive thyroid gland. The thyroid hormones are made from iodine and the amino acid, tyrosine. These hormones regulate metabolism in every single cell and your doctor can do a simple basal body temperature test to find out if this is your problem. If it is, your hairdresser is quite right to suggest kelp because it is a very rich source of iodine. A sea vegetable, kelp also contains potassium, magnesium, calcium and iron. You might also want to pay a visit to your fishmonger because other natural sources of iodine include clams, lobsters, oysters and sardines.
Roz Kadir, a qualified nutritionist, suggests you also take a supplement that contains the amino acid, tyrosine, which has been shown to stimulate the production of thyroid hormones. She recommends a supplement called Positive Nutrition, which is made by Higher Nature (01435-882880). It contains tyrosine, plus glutamine, zinc and B vitamins and costs £7 for 30 tablets. There is no charge for postage. Regular exercise will also stimulate thyroid gland secretions and increase the sensitivity of your body’s tissues, including your hair follicles, to the thyroid hormones.
*Roz Kadir can be contacted on 0181-948 3657. She also specialises in sports nutrition.