Natural Health: How can I restore my post-baby hair?

Plus: natural remedies for sugar cravings

Fri, 06 Sep, 2024 - 02:00

Megan Sheppard

I lost a lot of hair following the birth of my first child two years ago. It still has yet to return to its full volume. My hair is so fine that I find it difficult to tie it up in a ponytail. What can I do to give it some volume?

Hormonal fluctuations, stress, and lack of sleep are among the most common causes of thinning hair. These three disruptors collide in a perfect storm during the postpartum period. Furthermore, many women struggle to consume balanced, nutrient-dense food while juggling motherhood, work, and daily life.

Thinning hair with no obvious trigger can often be related to thyroid imbalance. I suggest you ask your GP to run tests to rule out or diagnose any potential underlying issues or imbalances. A practitioner specialising in thyroid health can run a comprehensive panel of tests to get a complete picture.

I often recommend biotin for improving nail health. It is also worth noting that it is an essential nutrient for maintaining hair condition, strength, and thickness. As it is one of the B vitamins necessary for the effective working of the nervous system, a biotin deficiency can be triggered by stress and lead to hair loss.

The B vitamins work synergistically, so are best taken together. Choose a B-complex that will deliver 1,000 micrograms of biotin daily to help your hair loss.

Selenium also supports healthy hair growth, and deficiency in this mineral is a common cause. Consider taking 200 micrograms twice daily. Some other hair growth tips include monitoring your water intake, as hydration plays a significant role in maintaining hair health and preventing hair breakage.

You can also use hair massage to enhance scalp circulation and stimulate growth. Try a combination of nourishing oils such as neem, argan, and black seed (nigella). Jojoba, either alone or together with essential oils like lavender, rosemary, ginger, and cedarwood, can also promote growth and nourish the hair follicles.

Some like to take things further by using a microneedle derma roller to help the essential oils penetrate more deeply. However, a simple scalp massage should do the trick.

Dr Patrick Magovern is a functional medicine practitioner specialising in thyroid health at the Drummartin Clinic in Dublin (www.drummartinclinic.ie)

I gave up cigarettes a month ago, and so far, so good. However, I’ve started to eat biscuits and chocolate from the first cuppa in the morning to the last at night. Is there a natural remedy to keep a sugar craving at bay?

Well done on giving up cigarettes — a huge achievement. It’s common to feel the need to do something with our hands and mouths in the early weeks and months after choosing not to smoke. Reaching for quick-fix biscuits and sweets is understandable.

Liquorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is one of the most popular herbal remedies for sugar cravings, and it also supports the adrenals and improves energy levels.

Making a tea infusion is the best way to consume liquorice root. Add a teaspoon of the dried root to a cup of boiling water and steep for as long or short a time as you like — the longer you brew the root, the sweeter the infusion will be.

Other natural remedies to help suppress sugar cravings include Gymnema sylvestre (known as ‘sugar destroyer’ in Ayurveda), fenugreek seeds, clove buds, and cinnamon bark.

Bach flower remedies may also help. Agrimony is often recommended to help with drinking, smoking, or comfort eating; Cherry Plum can help with impulses and habits; Chestnut Bud can help change behaviour patterns; Walnut is indicated to help with new beginnings and staying on track.