People should be watched for signs of decreased sweating and fever, especially in hot temperatures
Craig Mortensen, DC, IFMCP, QME, IFM-Certified Functional Medicine Physician and founder of Premier IFM in Placentia, CA, serving patients throughout Orange County and Southern California.
Med Sci Monit (2010) 16:Cr62832
Kidney of rats fed on 30% chocolate
Here's the truth: What's actually happening: Telogen effluvium: Temporary hair shedding triggered by rapid weight loss, not the medication itself Timeline: Usually starts 3-6 months after starting treatment Mechanism: Rapid weight loss/calorie deficit pushes hair follicles into the resting phase Recovery: Hair regrows 3-6 months after weight stabilizes NOT permanent: This is not male/female pattern baldness Prevention/Minimization: Adequate protein: 0.8-1g per pound of ideal body weight (supports hair follicle health) Biotin supplementation: 5,000-10,000 mcg daily (may help, not guaranteed) Collagen peptides: Some people report improvement Multivitamin: Ensure no deficiencies in iron, zinc, and vitamin D Don't over-restrict calories: Severe calorie deficits worsen hair loss Reality check: Some people lose zero hair Some lose noticeable amounts (more shedding when brushing/washing) Almost everyone who experiences it sees regrowth once weight stabilizes It's scary but temporary Serious Side Effects (Rare But Critical to Recognize) If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or seek immediate medical attention
