Experiencing Hair Loss and Stomach Issues: Seeking Supplement Advice
At 19 years old, I find myself grappling with unusual stomach and appetite complications that have persisted for nearly a year. A year ago, I was diagnosed with gastritis, which significantly diminished my desire to eat. Even after the gastritis seemed to resolve, my appetite did not return, leaving me with sporadic and uncomfortable hunger pangs. It feels strange to be painfully hungry yet unable to eat due to a lack of appetite. Additionally, I suffer from severe acid reflux and suspect that I might have GERD, which complicates the situation further. My sensory sensitivities, combined with being a finicky eater, have made it exceedingly tough to maintain a proper diet this past year. I can’t help but wonder if conditions like gastroparesis could be a factor; the situation is ongoing and appears to be worsening. For about a year, I've been striving to gain weight, but my fluctuations keep my weight hovering between 96 and 99 pounds (for reference, I am 5'5" tall). Currently, I’ve slipped back down to 97 pounds and am confronting hair shedding issues. In April of 2025, I noticed a significant amount of hair loss, which my doctor linked to low TSH levels at the time. After a recent retest revealed normal levels, I suspect that my current hair loss is primarily due to being underweight. Despite my efforts to gain weight, it has proven to be a considerable challenge, and I'm increasingly anxious about my hair loss, hoping for a resolution soon. I’ve heard that supplements like Zinc and B12 may be beneficial for preventing hair loss. Presently, I take Prozac in addition to Vitamin D, Iron, and Biotin. As my doctor is unavailable in the near future, I’m eager for recommendations on additional supplements or remedies that could aid in addressing my situation. I am committed to increasing my food intake, as I recognize that is the core issue, but I seek supplementary support to enhance my efforts. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 4:00:55 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are facing a challenging combination of issues related to your digestion, appetite, weight, and hair loss. It’s commendable that you are seeking ways to improve your situation and looking for dietary support. Here are some key points and recommendations tailored to your circumstances:
Main Points
- Low Appetite and Weight Concerns: Your history of gastritis and ongoing acid reflux may be impacting your appetite and weight maintenance.
- Hair Loss: This is likely related to being underweight, nutritional deficiencies, or both.
- Supplementation: While you’re already taking some supplements, it’s important to focus on those that could enhance both your overall health and hair density.
Explanation
Gastritis and acid reflux can lead to discomfort, which may make eating challenging. This, in combination with your sensitivities and lowered appetite, can hinder your ability to consume enough calories and nutrients necessary for weight gain and hair health. Addressing the underlying issues of appetite and ensuring a balanced intake of nutrients are essential steps forward.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Hydrate & Identify Triggers:
- Drink plenty of fluids, focusing on water and electrolyte drinks. Avoid caffeinated and acidic beverages that can aggravate your stomach issues.
- Keep a food diary to help identify any specific foods that may be triggering your acid reflux or appetite issues.
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Small, Frequent Meals:
- Aim for smaller, frequent meals rather than three large meals. Include calorie-dense foods such as nuts, peanut butter, avocados, and smoothies that combine fruits and vegetables.
- Integrate foods that are easier on your stomach (e.g., bananas, oatmeal, and cooked vegetables) to help stimulate appetite without causing discomfort.
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Nutritional Supplementation:
- Consider adding a multivitamin to cover potential deficiencies that may contribute to hair loss. Look for one that includes zinc, biotin, and iron.
- Zinc and Vitamin B12 can support hair health, and since you’re currently taking other supplements, ensure there’s no risk of exceeding recommended dosages.
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Consult a Dietitian:
- If possible, work with a registered dietitian who can tailor a dietary plan to your specific needs, especially regarding managing gastritis and acid reflux while supporting weight gain and hair health.
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Monitor and Adjust:
- Keep tracking your weight and hair health over the next few months. If your symptoms worsen or you do not see improvement, reaching out to a healthcare professional will become increasingly important.
It's important to nurture your body with kindness during this time. Changes might take time, but with patience and the right approach, you can work towards feeling better both physically and nutritionally. Let me know if you would like more details or have other questions!
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