Matcha & Hair Loss: Separating Fact From TikTok Fiction
By Dr. Michael Lee, World-Today-News.com – September 25, 2024
Matcha’s meteoric rise as a caffeine option to coffee shows no signs of slowing. U.S. retail sales are up a staggering 86% over the past three years, according to market research firm NIQ, fueled largely by its popularity wiht Gen Z. Though, a recent wave of online panic threatens to brew a different kind of storm for the vibrant green beverage.
A viral Instagram reel sparked widespread concern this week, alleging a link between matcha consumption and hair loss. The claim quickly spread across TikTok, with users sharing personal anecdotes and fueling anxieties. “Can I unsee this post?” one user lamented, echoing a sentiment felt by many. “WHY DOES THE INTERNET HAVE TO RUIN EVERYTHING,” another protested.
But is there any truth to the claim that your daily matcha could be contributing to hair shedding?
The short answer: likely not. While the internet is rife with health anxieties, the science surrounding matcha and hair loss is far more nuanced than a viral video suggests.
“The viral claims aren’t backed by any clinical research,” explains Dr. Divpreet Sacha of Her Holistic Health. “Actually, studies show the opposite-green tea and matcha may actually help with hair growth as of their antioxidants.”
So were does the concern stem from? Dr. Sacha points to matcha’s potential impact on iron absorption. “The confusion probably comes from the fact that green tea can reduce iron absorption if you drink it with meals,” she says. “But there’s no evidence this leads to hair loss. You’d need a serious, long-term iron deficiency for that to happen.”
While a moderate matcha habit isn’t likely to cause hair loss,individuals prone to iron deficiency should be mindful of when they consume their matcha. Avoiding consumption directly with meals can help maximize iron absorption from other dietary sources.
The matcha scare serves as a potent reminder to approach health facts online with a critical eye.While social media can be a valuable source of information, it’s crucial to rely on evidence-based research and consult with healthcare professionals before making drastic changes to your diet or lifestyle.
For now, matcha lovers can breathe a collective sigh of relief. The bright green beverage, lauded for its stress-reducing and immune-boosting properties, appears to be safe to enjoy – responsibly, and perhaps, between meals.
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