Hair loss is one of the major concerns people face around the globe. Statistics suggest that more than 90% of male pattern baldness results from androgenic alopecia, whereas 50% of women experience hair fall by the age of 50 due to hormonal changes. While there are many treatment options to regrow hair, taking precautions through the following measures in the initial stages can help prevent major hair loss.

1. Changes in diet
This is one of the primary hair loss prevention techniques for both men and women. A diet rich in raw vegetables and herbs such as parsley, basil, and salad greens may help reduce the risk of androgenic alopecia. A high-protein diet can also slow the rate of hair loss since hair follicles are made of keratin, a type of protein. The amino acids present in proteins help in strengthening hair roots. Some healthy protein food options include lean meat, poultry, nuts, beans, peas, fish, low-fat dairy, chicken, and turkey.

2. Eat more vitamins
Nutrients and vitamins not only help in maintaining overall health but also prevent hair loss. Vitamin A, a group of fat-soluble retinoids, accelerates hair growth and helps with sebum production that ensures a healthier scalp. Vitamin D and E stop hair loss due to deficiencies. Biotin or B7 helps in fatty acid synthesis in the body, which plays a crucial role in the hair life cycle.

3. Regular hair wash
Washing hair regularly helps in unclogging pores in the scalp, thereby improving hair follicle health and preventing hair loss. However, hair experts recommend using mild shampoos as harsher versions can make the scalp dry and increase the risk of breakage and excess hair loss.

4. Eat more herbs
Herbs such as saw palmetto and ginseng can be used to prevent hair loss in men and women. Saw palmetto is derived from the fruit of American dwarf pine trees. It promotes hair growth by blocking the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT – an androgen responsible for male pattern baldness. Ginseng helps prevent cell apoptosis (death) of dermal follicle papilla cells, thereby preventing excess hair loss. However, these herbs may interact with other hormones and give rise to other health conditions.

5. Oiling hair frequently
This is one of the essential steps in preventing hair loss. The lauric acid present in coconut oil locks the nutrients inside the hair strands and prevents it from getting damaged due to grooming and ultraviolet exposure. Olive oil also helps protect the hair from dryness and associated breakage, thereby keeping the hair hydrated for longer. Massaging the scalp with these oils increases the blood flow to the hair follicles, thereby providing all the nutrients for healthy hair growth.