Can instant noodles be causing Japanese men to lose their hair? According to researcher and writer, Ogawa Chieko, that might just be the case. It is thought that a diet of mostly noodles and broth might deprive the body of essential vitamins and nutrients for healthy hair. This type of hair loss is not to be confused with androgenic alopecia, the type of pattern baldness men and women inherit from their mother or father. Instead, this type of thinning or shedding is more similar to the temporary hair loss known to result from poor dietary choices, heightened levels of stress, or even heavy alcohol consumption.
Read more about stress-induced Telogen effluvium (hair loss).
Can Noodles Make You Bald?
If you are experiencing shedding or balding, it is not likely to be the result of an all-noodle diet.
Confusing Correlation with Causation
The Japanese study described above is a good example of how correlation is often mistaken for causation. In other words, one variable (x) is mistakenly thought to cause a specific outcome (y). So, while diet does have an affect on hair health, it is impossible to say that diet alone is responsible for hair loss. Other factors can play a causal role in shedding and balding, like genetics, daily stress, and fluctuations in hormonal balance.
To illustrate, consider that Japan ranks 60th in a recent Bloomberg assessment of the world’s most stressful countries (i). With this context, it becomes easier to see how one cannot attribute hair loss among Japanese men exclusively to a noodle-rich diet. Take a closer look at each individual, and personal details like genes and family medical history make it even more difficult to prove the “noodles cause hair loss” argument.
Eating for Healthy Hair
Nevertheless, the Japanese study offers a wakeup call to men and women who are not taking care of their bodies. Everyone should be proactive in eating a well-rounded diet, and not just for healthy hair. An overwhelming amount of research offers nearly irrefutable evidence that a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats, colorful vegetables, and various fruits can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular issues, diabetes, and other chronic diseases.
Never make any changes to diet or exercise regimen without first consulting with a physician. To learn more about nutrition and hair loss, visit these articles on the Miami Hair Blog:
Foods for Healthier Hair. From salmon to chickpeas and lentils, this article explores the most delicious all-natural foods proven to help grow fuller, stronger hair.
Macro Nutrients for Healthy Hair. Protein, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. This article provides a more general overview of the “building blocks” of naturally strong hair.
Vitamin D and Hair Loss. Can ample amounts of vitamin D help to prevent hair loss? Visit this article to learn more about the study that has researchers saying vitamin D is “crucial for the regeneration of hair.”
Hair Loss Consultation Miami
At the Hair Transplant Institute of Miami, we understand that hair loss is much more than a physical medical condition. Hair loss can have a profoundly negative impact on social and professional life, causing immense levels of stress, anxiety, and even depression. We hold every patient’s pursuit of a fuller, natural head of hair in the highest regard, and we invite you to learn more about Miami’s most advanced hair loss treatment center.
For more information, contact us online or call our clinic directly at 877-443-9070.
Sources
(i) http://www.bloomberg.com/visual-data/best-and-worst//most-stressed-out-countries