A lack of nutrients in your diet can cause a range of medical effects on the body, including hair loss. The most serious examples of this kind of dietary deficiency can be seen in people with eating disorders and those on extreme weight loss plans. However, your health and your hair can also be at risk from an excess of certain vitamins and minerals, as well as a deficiency.
Excessive intake of vitamin A can cause a condition known as Hypervitaminosis A, which specifically refers to the class of chemical compounds called retinoids. These retinoids have a number of functions within the body, with roles in everything from bone tissue growth and immune function to vision and the regulation of cell proliferation and differentiation.
If you take too much vitamin A and the liver’s stores of retinoids are exceeded, you could face systemic toxicity. This can cause the following effects:
• Liver problems
• Skin discolouration
• Excessive skin peeling/dryness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache, dizziness and blurred vision
• Loss of muscular coordination
• Course bone growths
• Reduced bone mineral density
• Hair loss
If you suspect you have Hypervitaminosis A, it is important to make an appointment to see your GP to get a formal diagnosis and treatment.