Vitamin B12 Deficiency & Hair Loss

Your hair is  a barometer of your overall health. Just like a plant needs fertile soil to grow, your hair needs a nourishing environment to thrive. That's why Nae Nae's Naturals is all about holistic hair care – it's about nurturing your body inside and out to support healthy hair growth!

When your body is in balance, your hair flourishes. But when there's a deficiency in essential nutrients, like vitamin B12, it can impact your hair's vitality and strength. That's why understanding the role of nutrients in hair health is key to unlocking your hair's full potential.

So, what happens when you don't get enough vitamin B12? How does it affect your hair and body?

Real Question from a Subscriber

Q: Can a lack of Vitamin B12 really cause hair loss?

A: Yes. Vitamin B12 is essential for healthy red blood cell production, which helps carry oxygen and nutrients to your scalp and hair follicles. When you're low in B12, it can lead to thinning, excessive shedding, and slower regrowth—especially if you're also feeling tired or dealing with other hormonal imbalances.

What Causes Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

Inadequate Dietary Intake

• One of the primary causes of vitamin B12 deficiency is not consuming enough foods rich in this essential nutrient. Vitamin B12 is predominantly found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Individuals following strict vegetarian or vegan diets may be at a higher risk of deficiency unless they supplement or consume fortified foods.

Poor Absorption

• Even if you consume sufficient amounts of vitamin B12, certain factors can interfere with its absorption in the body. Conditions that affect the stomach's ability to produce intrinsic factor – a protein necessary for vitamin B12 absorption – can lead to malabsorption. Examples include pernicious anemia, an autoimmune condition, and gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn's disease or celiac disease.

Aging

• As we age, our bodies may become less efficient at absorbing vitamin B12 from food sources. This can be because of reduced stomach acid production or changes in gastrointestinal function. Older adults are more susceptible to developing vitamin B12 deficiency.

Medications

• Certain medications can interfere with vitamin B12 absorption or increase its excretion from the body, leading to deficiency over time. Examples include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) used for acid reflux, metformin prescribed for diabetes management, and certain anti-seizure medications.

Nails

Vitamin B12 supports the health and strength of your nails, and a deficiency can lead to noticeable changes such as brittleness, ridges, and slow growth. Without sufficient vitamin B12, nails may become brittle and prone to splitting or breaking easily, as vitamin B12 is involved in the production of keratin, the protein that forms the structure of nails. Lack of B12 can also cause ridges to develop on the surface of the nails, whether vertically or horizontally, due to disruptions in the normal growth and development of nail cells.

Customer Testimonial

Tasha R., 46, Maryland

"I kept blaming stress, age, and hormones for my shedding, but it turns out my B12 levels were way too low. Once I started supplementing and followed Nae Nae’s routine with the Hair Boost and deep conditioner, my scalp felt healthier within weeks. Three months in, I’ve got baby hairs sprouting and my strands aren’t breaking like before. Don’t sleep on checking your B12—especially if you’re dealing with fatigue and hair loss like I was!"

Vitamin B12, plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy hair and overall well-being. Having enough vitamin B12 through diet or supplementation is essential for supporting optimal hair growth and preventing deficiency-related issues. If you think you may have a deficiency or are experiencing hair loss, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and guidance. Taking care of your health is a journey, and small changes can make a big difference in how you look and feel.

Remember, a healthy body radiates beauty from the inside out, your hair included!