The Sun: Alcohol Consumption Linked to Increased Risk of Hair Loss

A new study suggests that drinking alcoholic beverages — including beer — may be associated with a higher risk of hair loss, The Sun reports.

Researchers from the University of Porto analyzed 17 previous studies involving more than 60,000 participants. They found that people who consumed alcohol were more likely to experience thinning hair, reduced density and shine, and overall hair loss.

Interestingly, replacing alcoholic drinks with sugary soft drinks did not reduce the risk of hair loss — and in some cases, it even appeared to worsen the problem.

The researchers noted that hair health is influenced by other factors as well, including adequate intake of vitamin D and iron, and foods with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, such as broccoli and kale.

At the same time, excessive consumption of vitamin A — from foods like cheese, eggs, oily fish, low-fat dairy products, and margarine — may also have negative effects on hair health.

The article also references a study from the University of Sydney, which found that stevioside, a natural sweetener derived from the stevia plant, can enhance the effectiveness of minoxidil, a common medication for treating hair loss in men and women. This discovery opens new possibilities for combination therapies aimed at maintaining hair thickness.

Scientists emphasize that while the absolute risk of hair loss among alcohol drinkers remains low, the association appears to be real. Most of the available data are correlational, meaning a direct cause-and-effect relationship has not been proven.

If you notice increased hair shedding, experts advise paying attention not only to genetics, stress, and hair care habits, but also to lifestyle factors — including alcohol consumption and overall diet.

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