While many people focus on sun protection and hydration during the warmer months, experts say that summer nutrition can also affect the condition of your hair. Studies published in PubMed have revealed that nutritional deficiencies, including low levels of essential vitamins and minerals, can affect the hair growth cycle and contribute to increased hair loss.
Dr. Emrah Cinik, founder of Dr. Cinik Hair Clinic, says that some popular summer foods and drinks can weaken hair when they regularly replace nutritious alternatives: “Summer is a time when people often change their eating habits. More barbecues, sweet treats, and alcohol can become part of the weekly routine.”
“Your hair follicles need a constant supply of nutrients to grow strong, healthy strands. When the diet lacks important vitamins, minerals, and proteins, it can affect the strength and quality of your hair,” adds the doctor.
Dr. E. Cinik stated that the main summer products that can affect hair health are ice cream and popsicles: “When you regularly consume large amounts of sugar, it can increase inflammatory processes in the body. Inflammation can affect the environment around hair follicles, making it harder for them to grow strong and healthy strands.”
He adds that frequent blood sugar spikes can also affect circulation; “When blood sugar levels repeatedly rise, it can affect how efficiently nutrients reach the scalp. Over time, this can contribute to hair weakening and increased shedding.”
From garden barbecues to summer picnics, sausages and fries are popular foods during the warmer season, but Dr. E. Cinik warned against eating too much processed meat and fried food, according to the Daily Express.
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He said: “Processed meat can be high in unhealthy fats and low in nutrients that promote hair growth. Hair follicles need a stable supply of vitamins, minerals, and proteins. A diet dominated by processed foods can make it difficult for the body to provide hair with what it needs.”
“Foods rich in unhealthy fats can increase inflammation and affect the scalp environment. As a result, hair, depending on the person, can become dry, oily, or more prone to breakage,” he says.
Holidays and outdoor events often mean more cocktails and alcoholic beverages, but Dr. E. Cinik warns that excessive alcohol consumption can affect the scalp.
“Alcohol can contribute to dehydration, and hydration plays an important role in maintaining a healthy scalp. It can also affect the body’s ability to absorb important nutrients such as zinc, iron, and B vitamins, all of which are linked to healthy hair growth,” he explained.
