Wellness Explained

The Science of Healthy Hair: What Actually Matters

Episode Summary

In this episode of Wellness Explained, Sandy breaks down some of the nutritional factors that can influence hair health, including iron stores, ferritin, protein intake, and nutrient deficiencies, and explains why simply taking more supplements isn’t always the answer. You’ll also learn about hepcidin, a little-known hormone that affects iron absorption; why the timing and frequency of iron supplementation may matter; the difference between heme and non-heme iron; and where collagen actually fits into the hair-health conversation. Plus, Sandy discusses the difference between supporting hair growth from within and protecting the hair you already have from breakage and damage.

Episode Notes

Hair health is more complicated than buying a “hair, skin & nails” supplement.

In this episode, we’re unpacking what may actually matter when it comes to nutrition and healthy hair, including:

Ferritin vs. iron: why your iron stores can matter even before obvious anemia develops
Why there isn't one universally accepted “perfect” ferritin level for hair growth
Hepcidin: what it is and why taking iron more often doesn't necessarily mean absorbing more iron
Why alternate-day iron dosing has become an interesting strategy in the research
Why the form of an iron supplement matters, including ferrous bisglycinate
Food and supplement combinations that can help, or interfere with, iron absorption
Why adequate protein matters for hair
Where collagen fits, and why collagen shouldn't replace complete dietary protein
Why “more biotin” isn't automatically the solution
The difference between hair shedding and hair breakage
How heat and everyday hair-care practices can damage the hair shaft

The bigger takeaway: Hair is often treated like a cosmetic issue, but nutrition, nutrient status, and what’s happening inside the body can play an important role. Instead of blindly adding another supplement, start by asking why the changes may be happening.