Q I'm a woman in my 20s. After developing alopecia areata I want to change my diet — are there specific foods that are good for hair?
A Black-colored foods such as black soybeans, black sesame, and soy milk are good for hair nutrition. Nuts and tofu are also recommended. It is best to avoid crash diets or intermittent fasting, as they deplete Qi and blood and can worsen hair loss.
Detailed Answer
Black soybeans and black sesame are rich in protein and minerals and help supply nutrition to the follicles. Nuts contain unsaturated fatty acids and zinc that support scalp health, and soy foods such as tofu and soy milk are good for supplementing plant-based protein. On the other hand, sudden calorie restriction or intermittent fasting can rapidly deplete Qi and blood and hinder recovery from hair loss.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
In Korean medicine, black-colored foods are representative ingredients for reinforcing Kidney energy. If Liver-Kidney Deficiency (gansin-bujok) underlies the alopecia areata, regularly eating such foods supports treatment. Dietary habits that replenish the blood from within help the follicles regenerate.
Related FAQs
-
Q
It's been 2 years since my alopecia areata appeared and I have several bald patches. At this level, can it still improve with Korean medicine treatment?
#Possibility / Realistic Goals
-
Q
I'm being treated for hypothyroidism, and alopecia areata appeared along with it. Are they related?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
I have fairly severe atopic dermatitis, and alopecia areata appeared along with it. Can both be treated together with Korean medicine?
#Comorbidities
-
Q
I heard scalp massage helps with alopecia areata. How should I do it?
#Lifestyle Management
-
Q
I'm in my 30s working night shifts in Dong-gu, Incheon. My sleep is irregular — could this affect alopecia areata?
#Lifestyle Management