Hair Loss Treatment After Aspartame Poisoning

Aspartame, the artificial sweetener sold as Equal or Nutrasweet, has been cited as a possible cause of hair loss. The FDA keeps a log of consumer-reported adverse reactions. Hair loss is one of the reactions frequently reported due to aspartame use. There are several ways to counteract hair loss due to possible aspartame poisoning.

Discontinue use of aspartame

• Perhaps the most obvious solution to hair loss as a result of aspartame ingestion is to discontinue consuming products that contain this artificial sweetener. Some of the foods that contain aspartame are diet sodas, sugar-free gelatins and puddings, artificial sweeteners such as Equal or NutraSweet, sugar-free chewing gum and low calorie yogurt. Rather than consume foods with low calorie sweeteners, substitute a smaller portion of a food that is naturally sweetened.

Silica

• Silica, a trace element that stimulates cell metabolism and formation, promotes hair strength. While it may not prevent hair from falling out from the follicle, it will stop hair breakage. It can be purchased as a supplement or found in foods such as asparagus, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, cucumber, leeks, lettuce, oats, onions, parsnips, rhubarb, rice, strawberry, sunflower seeds and Swiss chard. Shampoos with silica added may also be beneficial.

Zinc

• Zinc is also important for healthy hair, since it aids in cell production, tissue growth and repair, and the maintenance of the oil-secreting glands of the scalp, as well as protein synthesis and collagen formation. Animal-based zinc sources, such as seafood (especially oysters), are rich in zinc. It is also found in smaller amount in milk and eggs. Plant-based sources of zinc such as legumes, natural grains and nuts are not as easily used by the body. Oats, which are also high in silica, are an exception and are easily used.

Protein and iron

• Foods that are rich in protein and iron can promote growth of strong hair. Hair is composed of protein, and iron gets oxygen to the hair shaft which makes the hair grow. Foods rich in both these elements include roast beef, soybeans, almonds, whole milk, whole wheat, oats, and fish.