<p>Do you experience unpleasant digestive symptoms such as constipation, abdominal cramps or excessive gas after eating gluten? There are three main gluten-related disorders that can affect the gut; Coeliac Disease (CD), wheat allergy, and Non-Coelic Gluten Sensitivity (NCGS). </p><p>People with Coeliac Disease (an autoimmune disorder) must avoid gluten as it causes serious damage to the gut lining. At least 1 in 100 people in the UK and Europe have Coeliac disease. Wheat allergy is more common in children and can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, hives, eczema and even anaphylaxis in extreme cases. Some people have a gluten sensitivity and find digestive symptoms ease when removing gluten. </p><h4>Key Foods for Gluten-Free Diets</h4><p>Gluten is found in cakes, biscuits, bread, pizza bases, crackers, pasta, breakfast cereals and oats (unless labeled gluten-free). The following dietary advice will help to ensure you don’t miss out on any key nutrients if you choose to go gluten-free:</p><ul><li>Consume naturally gluten-free foods such as rice, potatoes, meat, fish, fruits, vegetables and beans. </li><li>Avoid processed gluten-free products as these tend to have poor nutritional value and lack fibre. </li><li>Include gluten-free wholegrains such as rice, quinoa, buckwheat, gluten-free labelled oats, polenta and millet.</li><li>Consume foods containing vitamins B1, B3 and B9 which can be lacking in a gluten-free diet for example pork, salmon, beans, lentils, peas, tofu, chicken, beef, avocados, brown rice, sweet potato, dark leafy greens, broccoli and oranges. </li><li>Be mindful of hidden sources of gluten including crisps, chips and plant-based meat alternatives.</li></ul><h4>Which Supplements Can Support Gluten-Free Diets?</h4><p>A gluten-free diet should not need additional supplements providing a balanced and varied diet is consumed, including the above foods. However, people with Coeliac Disease may require the following supplements if damage to the gut lining has caused nutrient deficiencies. </p><ol><li>Iron</li><li>Zinc</li><li>Magnesium</li><li>Vitamin B12</li><li>Calcium</li></ol><h4> Top Tips on Buying Supplements for Gluten-Free Diets</h4><ul><li>Zinc picolinate and zinc citrate are good bioavailable forms of zinc to supplement with to ensure optimal absorption.</li><li>Ferrous sulphate or ferrous fumarate are often prescribed for iron deficiency, however these can cause digestive upset and constipation. Iron bisglycinate may be gentler on the stomach. Men, and women aged over 50 require 8.7 milligrams, and menstruating women require 14.8 milligrams. </li><li>The most bio-available forms of magnesium are magnesium glycinate and magnesium citrate, either in powder or capsule form.</li><li>Methycobalamin, hydroxycobalamin and adenocobalamin are good bioavailable forms of vitamin B12 to take. Avoid cobalamin which is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 and less easily absorbed by the body.</li><li>Look for supplements which contain methylfolate, as this is more bioavailable compared to folic acid, which is the synthetic form of folate. </li></ul><h4>Nutritional Therapy Support For Gluten-Free </h4><p>Work with a registered Nutritional Therapist for a personalised nutrition and diet plan, tailored to your specific health requirements. For one-to-one support with eating a gluten-free diet and to book a consultation, head over to our expert page here: https://www.vitaminology.co/consultations </p>

Supplements for Gluten-Free

Is gluten-free good for you? Find out everything you need to know about the benefits and facts about a gluten-free diet. 

Gluten-Free

Registered Nutritional Therapist (DipION), SIBO Practitioner & Content Writer. 

<h4>What foods are gluten-free and what foods to avoid if you&#x27;re Coeliac or gluten sensitive.</h4><p>Coeliac Disease is a condition which causes your immune system to attack the lining of your small intestine whenever gluten is ingested. This can cause nutritional deficiencies, stomach pain, digestive issues, joint and muscle pain, weight loss, fatigue and many other symptoms</p><p>If you’ve been diagnosed with Coeliac disease it’s vital that you completely avoid all gluten containing foods or products, as even small amounts can trigger the condition and damage the gut lining further.</p><p>If you have a gluten sensitivity, it can be helpful to completely remove gluten from your diet for a month or so to avoid further irritation of the gut. Some people may be able to tolerate small amounts of gluten in their diet after a short break from gluten and once their gut health has improved, whilst others may need to avoid gluten completely. It’s also important to consider other factors which could be affecting your digestion unrelated to gluten, such as difficulty digesting wheat or other foods containing FODMAPs, which you can <a href="https://vitaminology.co/articles/gluten-free/is-gluten-causing-your-symptoms" target="_self">read about here</a> .</p><h5>So you’ve been diagnosed as having Coeliac disease or you have non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), what can you eat?</h5><p>A good place to start is to read the ingredients on the back of food products. UK legislation requires companies to highlight allergen ingredients in bold, including ingredients containing gluten. Some supermarkets now also have ‘free-from’ sections offering a range of gluten-free products.</p><p>Coeliac UK has created a crossed grain logo to indicate which food products are certified gluten-free, to help you easily identify gluten-free products. <a href="https://www.coeliac.org.uk/information-and-support/living-gluten-free/the-gluten-free-diet/food-shopping/look-out-for-our-crossed-grain-symbol" target="_self">You can read more about this here</a> .  However, not all companies are using this therefore it’s still important to check the ingredients list.</p><p>Some restaurants mark gluten-free meals with ‘GF’. If this isn’t clear on the menu, don’t hesitate to ask the restaurant to check if a meal is gluten-free.</p><h5>Common foods that contain gluten and hidden sources:</h5><p><strong>Gluten-containing foods:</strong></p><p>●	Wheat - found in breads (including sourdough), pizza bases, breakfast cereals, pasta, cakes and biscuits.</p><p>●	Couscous</p><p>●	Bulgar wheat</p><p>●	Rye</p><p>●	Semolina</p><p>●	Triticale - used in breads and cakes.</p><p>●	Durum wheat - used in pastas and bread.</p><p>●	Khorasan wheat also known as Kamut</p><p>●	Oats only if specifically labeled gluten-free (regular oats can be contaminated with gluten).</p><p>●	Barley and barley-based products (beers, ales, stouts, lagers, malted drinks).</p><p><strong>Potential hidden sources of gluten:</strong></p><p>●	Crisps, chips, soy sauce, soup, energy bars, processed meats, salad dressings and plant-based meat alternatives.</p><p>●	Some non-food based products may contain gluten such as cosmetics, medications, nutritional supplements, herbal medicines, wheat-based play-dough and communion wafers.</p><p><strong>Gluten-free foods:</strong></p><p>●	Legumes (peas, lentils, beans)</p><p>●	Rice</p><p>●	Quinoa</p><p>●	Buckwheat</p><p>●	Gram flour</p><p>●	Maize (corn)</p><p>●	Hops</p><p>●	Potato</p><p>●	Soya (except in soy sauce)</p><p>●	Nuts</p><p>●	Seeds</p><p>●	Tapioca</p><p>●	Amaranth</p><p>●	Hemp</p><p>●	Millet</p><p>●	Polenta</p><p><strong>*</strong>Note this is not an exhaustive list. Coeliac UK has a more comprehensive gluten-free checklist which you can <a href="https://www.coeliac.org.uk/document-library/6679-gluten-free-checklist-january-2020/?return=/information-and-support/living-gluten-free/the-gluten-free-diet/" target="_self">download here</a> for more information.</p><p>Following a gluten-free diet doesn’t have to be complicated. The main gluten-containing foods include cakes, biscuits, bread, pizza bases, crackers, pasta, breakfast cereals and oats (unless labeled gluten-free). Watch out for hidden sources of gluten too such as crisps, chips and plant-based meat alternatives, and even some cosmetics and medications. Foods that are naturally gluten-free include rice, potatoes, meat, fish, beans, fruits and vegetables.</p><p></p><p></p>

Could there be hidden sources of gluten lurking in your diet? 

<a href="/directory/ingredients/amaranth" target="_blank">Amaranth</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/cassava" target="_blank">Tapioca</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/broom-corn" target="_blank">Millet</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/quinoa" target="_blank">Quinoa</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/potato" target="_blank">Potato</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/marijuana" target="_blank">joint</a>

<h4>What foods are gluten-free and what foods to avoid if you&#x27;re Coeliac or gluten sensitive.</h4><p>Coeliac Disease is a condition which causes your immune system to attack the lining of your small intestine whenever gluten is ingested. This can cause nutritional deficiencies, stomach pain, digestive issues, <a href="/directory/ingredients/marijuana" target="_blank">joint</a> and muscle pain, weight loss, fatigue and many other symptoms</p><p>If you’ve been diagnosed with Coeliac disease it’s vital that you completely avoid all gluten containing foods or products, as even small amounts can trigger the condition and damage the gut lining further.</p><p>If you have a gluten sensitivity, it can be helpful to completely remove gluten from your diet for a month or so to avoid further irritation of the gut. Some people may be able to tolerate small amounts of gluten in their diet after a short break from gluten and once their gut health has improved, whilst others may need to avoid gluten completely. It’s also important to consider other factors which could be affecting your digestion unrelated to gluten, such as difficulty digesting wheat or other foods containing FODMAPs, which you can <a href="https://vitaminology.co/articles/gluten-free/is-gluten-causing-your-symptoms" target="_self">read about here</a> .</p><h5>So you’ve been diagnosed as having Coeliac disease or you have non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), what can you eat?</h5><p>A good place to start is to read the ingredients on the back of food products. UK legislation requires companies to highlight allergen ingredients in bold, including ingredients containing gluten. Some supermarkets now also have ‘free-from’ sections offering a range of gluten-free products.</p><p>Coeliac UK has created a crossed grain logo to indicate which food products are certified gluten-free, to help you easily identify gluten-free products. <a href="https://www.coeliac.org.uk/information-and-support/living-gluten-free/the-gluten-free-diet/food-shopping/look-out-for-our-crossed-grain-symbol" target="_self">You can read more about this here</a> .  However, not all companies are using this therefore it’s still important to check the ingredients list.</p><p>Some restaurants mark gluten-free meals with ‘GF’. If this isn’t clear on the menu, don’t hesitate to ask the restaurant to check if a meal is gluten-free.</p><h5>Common foods that contain gluten and hidden sources:</h5><p><strong>Gluten-containing foods:</strong></p><p>●	Wheat - found in breads (including sourdough), pizza bases, breakfast cereals, pasta, cakes and biscuits.</p><p>●	Couscous</p><p>●	Bulgar wheat</p><p>●	Rye</p><p>●	Semolina</p><p>●	Triticale - used in breads and cakes.</p><p>●	Durum wheat - used in pastas and bread.</p><p>●	Khorasan wheat also known as Kamut</p><p>●	Oats only if specifically labeled gluten-free (regular oats can be contaminated with gluten).</p><p>●	Barley and <a href="/directory/ingredients/barley" target="_blank">barley</a>-based products (beers, ales, stouts, lagers, malted drinks).</p><p><strong>Potential hidden sources of gluten:</strong></p><p>●	Crisps, chips, <a href="/directory/ingredients/soy" target="_blank">soy</a> sauce, soup, energy bars, processed meats, salad dressings and plant-based meat alternatives.</p><p>●	Some non-food based products may contain gluten such as cosmetics, medications, nutritional supplements, herbal medicines, wheat-based play-dough and communion wafers.</p><p><strong>Gluten-free foods:</strong></p><p>●	Legumes (peas, lentils, beans)</p><p>●	Rice</p><p>●	<a href="/directory/ingredients/quinoa" target="_blank">Quinoa</a></p><p>●	Buckwheat</p><p>●	Gram flour</p><p>●	Maize (corn)</p><p>●	<a href="/directory/ingredients/hops" target="_blank">Hops</a></p><p>●	<a href="/directory/ingredients/potato" target="_blank">Potato</a></p><p>●	<a href="/directory/ingredients/soy" target="_blank">Soya</a> (except in soy sauce)</p><p>●	Nuts</p><p>●	Seeds</p><p>●	<a href="/directory/ingredients/cassava" target="_blank">Tapioca</a></p><p>●	<a href="/directory/ingredients/amaranth" target="_blank">Amaranth</a></p><p>●	Hemp</p><p>●	<a href="/directory/ingredients/broom-corn" target="_blank">Millet</a></p><p>●	Polenta</p><p><strong>*</strong>Note this is not an exhaustive list. Coeliac UK has a more comprehensive gluten-free checklist which you can <a href="https://www.coeliac.org.uk/document-library/6679-gluten-free-checklist-january-2020/?return=/information-and-support/living-gluten-free/the-gluten-free-diet/" target="_self">download here</a> for more information.</p><p>Following a gluten-free diet doesn’t have to be complicated. The main gluten-containing foods include cakes, biscuits, bread, pizza bases, crackers, pasta, breakfast cereals and oats (unless labeled gluten-free). Watch out for hidden sources of gluten too such as crisps, chips and plant-based meat alternatives, and even some cosmetics and medications. Foods that are naturally gluten-free include rice, potatoes, meat, fish, beans, fruits and vegetables.</p><p></p><p></p>

What Foods Are Gluten-Free?

<p>Coeliac Disease is a condition which causes your immune system to attack the lining of your small intestine whenever gluten is ingested. This can cause nutritional deficiencies, stomach pain, digestive issues, joint and muscle pain, weight loss, fatigue and many other symptoms</p><p>If you’ve been diagnosed with Coeliac disease it’s vital that you completely avoid all gluten containing foods or products, as even small amounts can trigger the condition and damage the gut lining further.</p><p>If you have a gluten sensitivity, it can be helpful to completely remove gluten from your diet for a month or so to avoid further irritation of the gut. Some people may be able to tolerate small amounts of gluten in their diet after a short break from gluten and once their gut health has improved, whilst others may need to avoid gluten completely. It’s also important to consider other factors which could be affecting your digestion unrelated to gluten, such as difficulty digesting wheat or other foods containing FODMAPs, which you can read about <a href="https://www.vitaminology.co/articles/nogluten/is-gluten-causing-your-symptoms">here</a>.</p>

<p>So you’ve been diagnosed as having Coeliac disease or you have non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), what can you eat?</p><p>A good place to start is to read the ingredients on the back of food products. UK legislation requires companies to highlight allergen ingredients in bold, including ingredients containing gluten. Some supermarkets now also have ‘free-from’ sections offering a range of gluten-free products.</p><p>Coeliac UK has created a crossed grain logo to indicate which food products are certified gluten-free, to help you easily identify gluten-free products. You can read more about this here .  However, not all companies are using this therefore it’s still important to check the ingredients list.</p><p>Some restaurants mark gluten-free meals with ‘GF’. If this isn’t clear on the menu, don’t hesitate to ask the restaurant to check if a meal is gluten-free.</p>

<h5>Common foods that contain gluten and hidden sources:</h5><h6>Gluten-containing foods:</h6><ul><li>Wheat - found in breads (including sourdough), pizza bases, breakfast cereals, pasta, cakes and biscuits.</li><li>Couscous</li><li>Bulgar wheat</li><li>Rye</li><li>Semolina</li><li>Triticale - used in breads and cakes.</li><li>Durum wheat - used in pastas and bread.</li><li>Khorasan wheat also known as Kamut</li><li>Oats only if specifically labeled gluten-free (regular oats can be contaminated with gluten).</li><li>Barley and barley-based products (beers, ales, stouts, lagers, malted drinks).</li></ul><h6>Potential hidden sources of gluten:</h6><ul><li>Crisps, chips, soy sauce, soup, energy bars, processed meats, salad dressings and plant-based meat alternatives.</li><li>Some non-food based products may contain gluten such as cosmetics, medications, nutritional supplements, herbal medicines, wheat-based play-dough and communion wafers.</li></ul><h6>Gluten-free foods:</h6><ul><li>Legumes (peas, lentils, beans)</li><li>Rice</li><li>Quinoa</li><li>Buckwheat</li><li>Gram flour</li><li>Maize (corn)</li><li>Hops</li><li>Potato</li><li>Soya (except in soy sauce)</li><li>Nuts</li><li>Seeds</li><li>Tapioca</li><li>Amaranth</li><li>Hemp</li><li>Millet</li><li>Polenta</li></ul><p><strong>*</strong>Note this is not an exhaustive list. Coeliac UK has a more comprehensive gluten-free checklist which you can download here for more information.</p>

<h5>Summary</h5><p>Following a gluten-free diet doesn’t have to be complicated. The main gluten-containing foods include cakes, biscuits, bread, pizza bases, crackers, pasta, breakfast cereals and oats (unless labeled gluten-free). </p><p>Watch out for hidden sources of gluten too such as crisps, chips and plant-based meat alternatives, and even some cosmetics and medications. </p><p>Foods that are naturally gluten-free include rice, potatoes, meat, fish, beans, fruits and vegetables.</p>

<h3>Supplements for Hair Loss</h3><p>As part of a healthy hair cycle, we would expect to lose between 50-100 hairs every day, depending on our brushing and washing regime. These hairs are normally automatically replaced but when the rate of shedding outweighs the number of hairs growing back then this can result in overall hair loss. Hair loss or damaged hair may not be a life-threatening issue but can be extremely distressing. </p><p>There are specific key nutrients that can help support healthy hair growth and these can be sourced as part of a healthy, balanced diet. </p><p></p><h3>Key Foods for Hair Loss</h3><p>Nutrients essential for hair growth include protein, iron, vitamin B12, folate, zinc, L-lysine, biotin and essential fatty acids, vitamins A, C and E. Here are some foods which are rich in these nutrients that you should eat regularly to help keep your hair strong and healthy:</p><ul><li><strong>Eggs</strong> - egg yolks contain good amounts of protein, biotin, L-lysine and zinc.</li><li><strong>Complex carbohydrates</strong> - beans are good sources of plant-based protein, iron, zinc and biotin. Sweet potatoes, butternut squash and pumpkin contain beta-carotene that is converted into vitamin A. </li><li><strong>Nuts and seeds</strong> contain essential fatty acids, zinc, L-lysine, B vitamins and vitamin E. </li><li><strong>Fruits and vegetables</strong> such as spinach, sweet peppers and berries contain a range of nutrients such as beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E and antioxidants. </li><li><strong>Meat and fish </strong>are excellent sources of protein, iron, vitamin B12, folate, zinc, L-lysine, vitamin A, and omega-3 fatty acids. Consider liver, grass fed red meat, seafood such as oysters and shrimp, and oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines and herring. </li></ul><p></p><h3>Which Supplements Can Support Hair Loss? </h3><ol type="1"><li>Iron</li><li>Vitamin C</li><li>L-lysine</li><li>Biotin (vitamin B7)</li><li>Zinc</li></ol><p> </p><h3>Top Tips on Buying Supplements for Hair Loss </h3><ul><li>Get your iron levels checked before supplementing with iron as too much iron can be dangerous. Men, and women aged over 50 require 8.7 milligrams, and menstruating women require 14.8 milligrams. Ferrous sulphate or ferrous fumarate are often prescribed for iron deficiency, however these can cause digestive upset and constipation. Iron bisglycinate may be gentler on the stomach.</li><li>For vitamin C, look for the ascorbate form rather than ascorbic acid, as this is gentler on your stomach. </li><li>Zinc picolinate and zinc citrate are good bioavailable forms of zinc to supplement with to ensure optimal absorption. Men require 9.5 milligrams per day, women require 7 milligrams per day. </li><li>Look for the natural and most active form of vitamin 7 (biotin) which is d-biotin.</li></ul><p></p><h3>Nutritional Therapy Support For Hair Loss   </h3><p>Work with a registered Nutritional Therapist for a personalised nutrition and diet plan, tailored to your specific health requirements. For one-to-one support with hair loss and to book a consultation, head over to our expert page here: https://www.vitaminology.co/consultations </p><p></p><p></p><p></p>

Vitamins for Hair, Skin & Nails

Find the best Vitamins for Skin, Hair and Nails that support health & growth. Discover the nutrients you've been missing & compare hundreds of brands today!

Hair, Skin & Nails

<p>As part of a healthy hair cycle, we would expect to lose between 50-100 hairs every day, depending on our brushing and washing regime. These hairs are normally automatically replaced but when the rate of shedding outweighs the number of hairs growing back then this can result in overall hair loss.</p><p>There are lots of changes to the body during pregnancy and following childbirth that can cause hair loss, due mostly to the changes and fluctuations of hormones but also with the changes to lifestyle that this can bring.</p><h4>What causes hair loss during and after pregnancy?</h4><h5>During pregnancy</h5><p>The hormonal changes experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy can put the body into a state of stress where the hair cycle is affected. Women can lose up to 300 hairs per day. This might not be noticed straightaway and it may take up to three to four months before any thinning is apparent. However, this condition, known as ‘telogen effluvium’ is not permanent and will usually resolve within six months.</p><h5>After pregnancy and childbirth</h5><p>During pregnancy, oestrogen levels rise and this can slow down the natural hair cycle, leading to less shedding of hair than usual. Hair often gets thicker than normal with the scalp retaining more hairs, even eyelashes and eyebrows can appear fuller too. About four months’ after giving birth, oestrogen levels start to drop and the hair cycle returns to normal. This can cause excessive shedding of hairs (up to 300 a day), seeming like hair loss, but it’s actually the excess hair being lost that was produced during pregnancy.</p><h4>Pregnancy-related health issues</h4><p>During pregnancy, other health-related issues can arise due to the changes in the body which may lead to hair loss.</p><h5>Hypothyroidism</h5><p>Out of 100 women, 2 to 3 will develop low thyroid function during pregnancy?, resulting in hair loss and other symptoms such as fatigue, constipation and muscle cramps. After childbirth 1 in 20 women may develop another thyroid-related condition called ‘post-partum thyroiditis’. Blood tests can be taken to determine how well the thyroid is functioning during and after pregnancy.</p><h5>Iron deficiency anaemia</h5><p>Pregnant women are also at risk of low iron levels causing anaemia, where there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body tissues. Symptoms include hair loss, fatigue, shortness of breath on exertion, headaches and an irregular heart beat. Severe morning sickness can also increase the risk of iron deficiency anaemia. Blood tests can help to diagnose this condition. Hair loss and other symptoms should resolve once the iron levels have returned to normal.</p><h4>Tips on how to avoid pregnancy-related hair loss</h4><ul><li><strong>Address any nutritional deficiencies</strong>. Include foods which are rich in nutrients healthy for hair growth such as iron, B12, zinc, L-lysine, biotin and essential fatty acids.</li><li><strong>Eat a wide variety of brightly coloured vegetables and fruit. </strong>Ensure good levels of antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin A which help to support healthy hair.</li><li><strong>Eat a healthy balanced diet. </strong>Include good quality protein, healthy fats and nutrient-dense carbohydrates. Avoid refined and processed carbohydrates and sugary foods to maintain healthy hormone levels and blood sugar balance which can influence hair growth.</li><li><strong>Be kind to your hair</strong>. Don&#x27;t wear tight hairstyles, wash it gently and use a wide-tooth comb for detangling. Give it a break from chemical hair treatments</li></ul><p>If you are concerned about your hair loss during or after pregnancy, consult your midwife or GP who will be able to investigate the underlying cause and provide support and treatment if needed.</p><p></p><p></p>

Many women experience hair loss after pregnancy. Here are some tips to help avoid pregnancy-related hair loss. 

<a href="/directory/ingredients/vitamin-a" target="_blank">vitamin A</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/vitamin-c" target="_blank">vitamin C</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/lysine" target="_blank">L-lysine</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/biotin" target="_blank">biotin</a>

<p>As part of a healthy hair cycle, we would expect to lose between 50-100 hairs every day, depending on our brushing and washing regime. These hairs are normally automatically replaced but when the rate of shedding outweighs the number of hairs growing back then this can result in overall hair loss.</p><p>There are lots of changes to the body during pregnancy and following childbirth that can cause hair loss, due mostly to the changes and fluctuations of hormones but also with the changes to lifestyle that this can bring.</p><h4>What causes hair loss during and after pregnancy?</h4><h5>During pregnancy</h5><p>The hormonal changes experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy can put the body into a state of stress where the hair cycle is affected. Women can lose up to 300 hairs per day. This might not be noticed straightaway and it may take up to three to four months before any thinning is apparent. However, this condition, known as ‘telogen effluvium’ is not permanent and will usually resolve within six months.</p><h5>After pregnancy and childbirth</h5><p>During pregnancy, oestrogen levels rise and this can slow down the natural hair cycle, leading to less shedding of hair than usual. Hair often gets thicker than normal with the scalp retaining more hairs, even eyelashes and eyebrows can appear fuller too. About four months’ after giving birth, oestrogen levels start to drop and the hair cycle returns to normal. This can cause excessive shedding of hairs (up to 300 a day), seeming like hair loss, but it’s actually the excess hair being lost that was produced during pregnancy.</p><h4>Pregnancy-related health issues</h4><p>During pregnancy, other health-related issues can arise due to the changes in the body which may lead to hair loss.</p><h5>Hypothyroidism</h5><p>Out of 100 women, 2 to 3 will develop low thyroid function during pregnancy?, resulting in hair loss and other symptoms such as fatigue, constipation and muscle cramps. After childbirth 1 in 20 women may develop another thyroid-related condition called ‘post-partum thyroiditis’. Blood tests can be taken to determine how well the thyroid is functioning during and after pregnancy.</p><h5><a href="/directory/ingredients/iron" target="_blank">Iron</a> deficiency anaemia</h5><p>Pregnant women are also at risk of low iron levels causing anaemia, where there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body tissues. Symptoms include hair loss, fatigue, shortness of breath on exertion, headaches and an irregular heart beat. Severe morning sickness can also increase the risk of iron deficiency anaemia. Blood tests can help to diagnose this condition. Hair loss and other symptoms should resolve once the iron levels have returned to normal.</p><h4>Tips on how to avoid pregnancy-related hair loss</h4><ul><li><strong>Address any nutritional deficiencies</strong>. Include foods which are rich in nutrients healthy for hair growth such as iron, <a href="/directory/ingredients/vitamin-b12" target="_blank">B12</a>, <a href="/directory/ingredients/zinc" target="_blank">zinc</a>, <a href="/directory/ingredients/lysine" target="_blank">L-lysine</a>, <a href="/directory/ingredients/biotin" target="_blank">biotin</a> and essential fatty acids.</li><li><strong>Eat a wide variety of brightly coloured vegetables and fruit. </strong>Ensure good levels of antioxidants, <a href="/directory/ingredients/vitamin-c" target="_blank">vitamin C</a> and <a href="/directory/ingredients/vitamin-a" target="_blank">vitamin A</a> which help to support healthy hair.</li><li><strong>Eat a healthy balanced diet. </strong>Include good quality protein, healthy fats and nutrient-dense carbohydrates. Avoid refined and processed carbohydrates and sugary foods to maintain healthy hormone levels and blood sugar balance which can influence hair growth.</li><li><strong>Be kind to your hair</strong>. Don&#x27;t wear tight hairstyles, wash it gently and use a wide-tooth comb for detangling. Give it a break from chemical hair treatments</li></ul><p>If you are concerned about your hair loss during or after pregnancy, consult your midwife or GP who will be able to investigate the underlying cause and provide support and treatment if needed.</p><p></p><p></p>

Hair Loss During And After Pregnancy

<p>As part of a healthy hair cycle, we would expect to lose between 50-100 hairs every day, depending on our brushing and washing regime. These hairs are normally automatically replaced but when the rate of shedding outweighs the number of hairs growing back then this can result in overall hair loss.</p><p>There are lots of changes to the body during pregnancy and following childbirth that can cause hair loss, due mostly to the changes and fluctuations of hormones but also with the changes to lifestyle that this can bring.</p><h4>What causes hair loss during and after pregnancy?</h4><h5>During pregnancy</h5><p>The hormonal changes experienced during the first trimester of pregnancy can put the body into a state of stress where the hair cycle is affected. Women can lose up to 300 hairs per day. This might not be noticed straightaway and it may take up to three to four months before any thinning is apparent. However, this condition, known as ‘telogen effluvium’ is not permanent and will usually resolve within six months.</p><h5>After pregnancy and childbirth</h5><p>During pregnancy, oestrogen levels rise and this can slow down the natural hair cycle, leading to less shedding of hair than usual. Hair often gets thicker than normal with the scalp retaining more hairs, even eyelashes and eyebrows can appear fuller too. About four months’ after giving birth, oestrogen levels start to drop and the hair cycle returns to normal. This can cause excessive shedding of hairs (up to 300 a day), seeming like hair loss, but it’s actually the excess hair being lost that was produced during pregnancy.</p>

<h4>Pregnancy-related health issues</h4><p>During pregnancy, other health-related issues can arise due to the changes in the body which may lead to hair loss.</p><h5>Hypothyroidism</h5><p>Out of 100 women, 2 to 3 will develop low thyroid function during pregnancy, resulting in hair loss and other symptoms such as fatigue, constipation and muscle cramps. After childbirth 1 in 20 women may develop another thyroid-related condition called ‘post-partum thyroiditis’. Blood tests can be taken to determine how well the thyroid is functioning during and after pregnancy.</p><h5>Iron deficiency anaemia</h5><p>Pregnant women are also at risk of low iron levels causing anaemia, where there are not enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to the body tissues. Symptoms include hair loss, fatigue, shortness of breath on exertion, headaches and an irregular heart beat. Severe morning sickness can also increase the risk of iron deficiency anaemia. Blood tests can help to diagnose this condition. Hair loss and other symptoms should resolve once the iron levels have returned to normal.</p><h4>Tips on how to avoid pregnancy-related hair loss</h4><ul><li><strong>Address any nutritional deficiencies</strong>. Include foods which are rich in nutrients healthy for hair growth such as iron, B12, zinc, L-lysine, biotin and essential fatty acids.</li><li><strong>Eat a wide variety of brightly coloured vegetables and fruit. </strong>Ensure good levels of antioxidants, vitamin C and vitamin A which help to support healthy hair.</li><li><strong>Eat a healthy balanced diet. </strong>Include good quality protein, healthy fats and nutrient-dense carbohydrates. Avoid refined and processed carbohydrates and sugary foods to maintain healthy hormone levels and blood sugar balance which can influence hair growth.</li><li><strong>Be kind to your hair</strong>. Don&#39;t wear tight hairstyles, wash it gently and use a wide-tooth comb for detangling. Give it a break from chemical hair treatments</li></ul><p>If you are concerned about your hair loss during or after pregnancy, consult your midwife or GP who will be able to investigate the underlying cause and provide support and treatment if needed.</p>

Hair Loss After Pregnancy

<h3>Supplements for Detoxification</h3><p>Do you feel like you need to cleanse your body and wonder which foods and supplements are best for detoxification? Excess exposure to environmental toxins can overburden the liver, cause symptoms and lead to health issues. </p><p>Simple changes to diet and lifestyle along with nutritional supplements can help to keep the liver healthy to support detoxification. </p><p></p><h3>Key Foods for Detoxification</h3><p>Nutrients known to support healthy detoxification include: alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), cysteine, magnesium, selenium, B vitamins, zinc, glutathione and antioxidants such as vitamin C and E. Fibre-rich foods are particularly beneficial for detoxification. Avoid processed and sugary foods and include these foods in your diet: </p><ul><li><strong>Dark green, leafy vegetables:</strong> kale, spinach, beet greens, rocket and chard are a rich source of ALA, magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin C, antioxidants and fibre.</li><li><strong>Cruciferous vegetables:</strong> vegetables from the Brassica family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbage contain essential vitamins and minerals to support each stage of liver detoxification. </li><li><strong>Avocado:</strong> a good source of glutathione (powerful antioxidant), fibre, magnesium, B vitamins, vitamin C and vitamin E.</li><li><strong>Brazil nuts: </strong>a great source of selenium. Two brazil nuts provides the recommended daily allowance of selenium but don’t eat more than this as they cause toxicity. </li><li><strong>Good quality red meat, poultry and seafood: </strong>a rich source of ALA, zinc, B vitamins and cysteine (needed to make and replenish glutathione). </li></ul><p></p><h3>Which Supplements Can Support Detoxification? </h3><p> These are the top nutrients to consider when looking for supplements to support detoxification:</p><ol type="1"><li>Milk thistle</li><li>N-acetyl cysteine (the supplement form of cysteine)</li><li>Vitamin C </li><li>Antioxidant complex</li><li>Alpha-lipoic acid </li></ol><p></p><h3>Top Tips on Buying Supplements for Detoxification  </h3><ul><li>For vitamin C, look for the ascorbate form rather than ascorbic acid, as this is gentler on the stomach. </li><li>If you take prescribed medications, particularly anti-psychotics, talk to your doctor first about taking milk thistle, as it can interact with certain medications. </li><li>Although antioxidant supplements support many body processes, they can be problematic if taken in excess, so always stick to the recommended dosage provided by the manufacturer or your practitioner. </li></ul><p></p><h3>Nutritional Therapy Support For Detoxification   </h3><p>Work with a registered Nutritional Therapist for a personalised nutrition and diet plan, tailored to your specific health requirements. For one-to-one support with detoxification and to book a consultation, head over to our expert page here: https://www.vitaminology.co/consultations </p><p></p>

Vitamins For Detoxification

In need of a detox? Discover and compare the best vitamins for detoxification on the market online at Vitaminology. Search the range of brands today. 

Detoxification

<p>Unfortunately, toxins surround us in our daily life, and no matter how hard we try to maintain healthy lifestyles, these toxins sometimes go under our radars. Some lifestyle choices can increase toxic burden stressing the detoxification capacity of the liver. These include smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Below are a few ‘everyday&#x27; chemicals, well-hidden in household products that you may be unaware of. Reducing your toxic load is a major step in supporting natural detoxification pathways.</p><h4>Common &#x27;everyday&#x27; toxins</h4><p><strong>Pesticides &amp; Herbicides</strong></p><p>These toxins are used on food while growing to avoid destruction from insects and weeds. Many fruits and vegetables sold in grocery stores and markets are found to still contain these toxic chemicals. Where possible try and buy organic produce to avoid additional toxins in your diet. Pan-UK lists fruits and vegetables with the most and the least pesticide exposure, referred to as the ‘clean fifteen’ and the ‘dirty dozen’. <a href="https://vitaminology-develop-asset.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/61e54a0c66452f2a23942d56" target="_self">Download our Dirty Dozen list here</a> . You still need to wash your fruit and vegetables even if they are organic. Adding a little apple cider vinegar to the washing water can help remove any pesticide residue still on the surface.</p><p><strong>Parabens</strong></p><p>Parabens are widely used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare products. Although useful in extending the shelf-life of our much beloved beauty products unfortunately these parabens can also enter our body through the skin adding to our toxic load. They have also been noted as disrupting to our hormones. Examine product labels for butylparaben, methylparaben and propylparaben, as these are the most commonly used parabens. Opt for paraben-free products where possible to help reduce that toxic burden in the body</p><p><strong>Phthalates</strong></p><p>Another group of chemicals found in cosmetics, perfumes, plastics, and other products is phthalates. Other than adding to the toxic load, phthalates have been linked to asthma and respiratory problems. Any product containing the word ‘parfum’ or ‘fragrance’ almost certainly has phthalates in them. They can also be found in some plastics.</p><p><strong>Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)</strong></p><p>These toxic compounds are found in a lot of personal care and cleaning products. It’s used in products to help create a foamy consistency. SLS has been linked to skin and eye conditions, reproductive toxicity, and endocrine disruption. Again, look for the SLS-free products as a substitution.</p><p><strong>Bisphenol-A (BPA)</strong></p><p>You may have already heard of BPA found at toxic levels in plastic products, such as plastic containers, bottles and coffee cup lids. BPA is also found in the lining of canned and tinned goods as well as til receipts. A few savvy ways to avoid those hidden BPA toxins in products is to avoid canned foods and look for alternatives in glass. Try a stainless-steel water bottle instead of a plastic bottle and avoid storing or heating food in plastic containers.</p><p>The takeaway from this is that it is a lot easier to avoid putting the toxins into our bodies in the first instance than to try and remove them. Become more aware of what you are putting into your body by becoming familiar with reading the product labels, and as much as possible substitute the products with alternative toxin-free options.</p><p></p><p></p>

Reduce your exposure to the 'everyday' dangerous toxins in your life that can have harmful effects on health. 

<a href="/directory/ingredients/coffee" target="_blank">coffee</a>

<a href="/directory/ingredients/sodium" target="_blank">Sodium</a>

<p>Unfortunately, toxins surround us in our daily life, and no matter how hard we try to maintain healthy lifestyles, these toxins sometimes go under our radars. Some lifestyle choices can increase toxic burden stressing the detoxification capacity of the liver. These include smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Below are a few ‘everyday&#x27; chemicals, well-hidden in household products that you may be unaware of. Reducing your toxic load is a major step in supporting natural detoxification pathways.</p><h4>Common &#x27;everyday&#x27; toxins</h4><p><strong>Pesticides &amp; Herbicides</strong></p><p>These toxins are used on food while growing to avoid destruction from insects and weeds. Many fruits and vegetables sold in grocery stores and markets are found to still contain these toxic chemicals. Where possible try and buy organic produce to avoid additional toxins in your diet. Pan-UK lists fruits and vegetables with the most and the least pesticide exposure, referred to as the ‘clean fifteen’ and the ‘dirty dozen’. <a href="https://vitaminology-develop-asset.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/61e54a0c66452f2a23942d56" target="_self">Download our Dirty Dozen list here</a> . You still need to wash your fruit and vegetables even if they are organic. Adding a little apple cider vinegar to the washing water can help remove any pesticide residue still on the surface.</p><p><strong>Parabens</strong></p><p>Parabens are widely used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare products. Although useful in extending the shelf-life of our much beloved beauty products unfortunately these parabens can also enter our body through the skin adding to our toxic load. They have also been noted as disrupting to our hormones. Examine product labels for butylparaben, methylparaben and propylparaben, as these are the most commonly used parabens. Opt for paraben-free products where possible to help reduce that toxic burden in the body</p><p><strong>Phthalates</strong></p><p>Another group of chemicals found in cosmetics, perfumes, plastics, and other products is phthalates. Other than adding to the toxic load, phthalates have been linked to asthma and respiratory problems. Any product containing the word ‘parfum’ or ‘fragrance’ almost certainly has phthalates in them. They can also be found in some plastics.</p><p><strong><a href="/directory/ingredients/sodium" target="_blank">Sodium</a> Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)</strong></p><p>These toxic compounds are found in a lot of personal care and cleaning products. It’s used in products to help create a foamy consistency. SLS has been linked to skin and eye conditions, reproductive toxicity, and endocrine disruption. Again, look for the SLS-free products as a substitution.</p><p><strong>Bisphenol-A (BPA)</strong></p><p>You may have already heard of BPA found at toxic levels in plastic products, such as plastic containers, bottles and <a href="/directory/ingredients/coffee" target="_blank">coffee</a> cup lids. BPA is also found in the lining of canned and tinned goods as well as <a href="/directory/ingredients/sesame" target="_blank">til</a> receipts. A few savvy ways to avoid those hidden BPA toxins in products is to avoid canned foods and look for alternatives in glass. Try a stainless-steel water bottle instead of a plastic bottle and avoid storing or heating food in plastic containers.</p><p>The takeaway from this is that it is a lot easier to avoid putting the toxins into our bodies in the first instance than to try and remove them. Become more aware of what you are putting into your body by becoming familiar with reading the product labels, and as much as possible substitute the products with alternative toxin-free options.</p><p></p><p></p>

Everyday Toxins That Impact Detoxification

<p>Unfortunately, toxins surround us in our daily life, and no matter how hard we try to maintain healthy lifestyles, these toxins sometimes go under our radars. Some lifestyle choices can increase toxic burden stressing the detoxification capacity of the liver. These include smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Below are a few ‘everyday&#39; chemicals, well-hidden in household products that you may be unaware of. Reducing your toxic load is a major step in supporting natural detoxification pathways.</p><h4>Common &#39;everyday&#39; toxins</h4><p><strong>Pesticides &amp; Herbicides</strong></p><p>These toxins are used on food while growing to avoid destruction from insects and weeds. Many fruits and vegetables sold in grocery stores and markets are found to still contain these toxic chemicals. Where possible try and buy organic produce to avoid additional toxins in your diet. Pan-UK lists fruits and vegetables with the most and the least pesticide exposure, referred to as the ‘clean fifteen’ and the ‘dirty dozen’. <a href="https://vitaminology-develop-asset.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/61e54a0c66452f2a23942d56">Download our Dirty Dozen list here</a> . You still need to wash your fruit and vegetables even if they are organic. Adding a little apple cider vinegar to the washing water can help remove any pesticide residue still on the surface.</p><p><strong>Parabens</strong></p><p>Parabens are widely used as a preservative in cosmetic and skincare products. Although useful in extending the shelf-life of our much beloved beauty products unfortunately these parabens can also enter our body through the skin adding to our toxic load. They have also been noted as disrupting to our hormones. Examine product labels for butylparaben, methylparaben and propylparaben, as these are the most commonly used parabens. Opt for paraben-free products where possible to help reduce that toxic burden in the body</p>

<p><strong>Phthalates</strong></p><p>Another group of chemicals found in cosmetics, perfumes, plastics, and other products is phthalates. Other than adding to the toxic load, phthalates have been linked to asthma and respiratory problems. Any product containing the word ‘parfum’ or ‘fragrance’ almost certainly has phthalates in them. They can also be found in some plastics.</p><p><strong>Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)</strong></p><p>These toxic compounds are found in a lot of personal care and cleaning products. It’s used in products to help create a foamy consistency. SLS has been linked to skin and eye conditions, reproductive toxicity, and endocrine disruption. Again, look for the SLS-free products as a substitution.</p><p><strong>Bisphenol-A (BPA)</strong></p><p>You may have already heard of BPA found at toxic levels in plastic products, such as plastic containers, bottles and coffee cup lids. BPA is also found in the lining of canned and tinned goods as well as til receipts. A few savvy ways to avoid those hidden BPA toxins in products is to avoid canned foods and look for alternatives in glass. Try a stainless-steel water bottle instead of a plastic bottle and avoid storing or heating food in plastic containers.</p><p>The takeaway from this is that it is a lot easier to avoid putting the toxins into our bodies in the first instance than to try and remove them. Become more aware of what you are putting into your body by becoming familiar with reading the product labels, and as much as possible substitute the products with alternative toxin-free options.</p><br/>

Nutritional Therapist

<p>Do you eat a halal diet? Are there certain food groups that you avoid? </p><p>Good nutrition and lifestyle play a key role in optimising overall health. Our expert articles provide useful insights and advice on how to eat a healthy, balanced diet with dietary restrictions to make sure you&#39;re getting the nutrients your body needs to function at its best. </p><p>Read the articles and explore the products to find out which foods and supplements are most suited to your individual health needs.</p>

Supplements for Halal

Halal Products

Igennus

Neurobalance - Zinc, magnesium & vitamin B6 for adults & children

Igennus

Calcium & Magnesium Marine Mineral Complex, 90 capsules

Solgar

Calcium Magnesium Plus Zinc Tablets

Applied Nutrition

Collagen Peptides Hydrolysed Bovine Collagen

Now Foods

Vitamin D3 1000IU Standard

Solgar

Formula Vitamin B-Complex

Solgar

Vitamin D3, Cholecalciferol, 600 IU, 15 µg

Smoky Mountain Naturals, LLC

Elderberry Gummies, Elderberry with Zinc

Euphoria Bliss

Premium Collagen Unflavoured High Grade

Halal Articles

What Foods Are Gluten-Free?

Hair Loss After Pregnancy

Everyday Toxins That Impact Detoxification