Millenials are experiencing hair loss at an alarming rate, and vitamin D deficiency is partly to blame. Hair loss can be humiliating, especially at a young age, so it’s important to maintain healthy levels of vitamin D. Spending time outdoors and eating food rich in Vitamin D during the winter are two ways you can ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D for healthy living.

Premature hair loss. Three of the most dreaded words in the English language. It’s one thing to say farewell to your follicles in your forties, fifties, or sixties. But today men and women are experiencing thinning and balding at the ripe age of 18. And one of the culprits just might surprise you.

Vitamin D deficiency may be a cause of premature hair loss among young generations

We’re quick to blame stress as the leading cause of hair loss. Other known causes — such as thyroid problems, hormone fluctuations, and diet — often get the lion’s share of attention these days. But more recently, hair-loss experts are calling out vitamin D deficiency as a contributor to premature hair loss.

While vitamin D deficiency might not be the number one cause of balding in the younger generation, it certainly isn’t helping. Healthline cites a recent study by Dr. Emily L. Guo, resident physician at the Baylor College of Medicine in Texas, where Guo claims that “severely reduced protein consumption as well as deficiencies in zinc, vitamin D, and other nutrients can negatively affect hair growth.”

According to Healthline, vitamin D stimulates new and old hair follicles and actually encourages new hair growth. The obvious concern, then, for a vitamin D deficiency is stunted hair growth. And while this reality might be embarrassing for a middle-aged man, it can be absolutely humiliating for a freshman in college.

A mindful sun exposure and Vitamin D supplements to remain healthy in the "D" department

With this in mind, what can you do to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D and your fair share of hair? For starters, get outdoors! Getting much-needed sun is especially important during the winter months, when vitamin D deficiency is at an all-time high. If it’s not too cold out, spend some mindful time soaking in the rays. When the temps drop too low, try this mushroom health hack  to ensure you’re doing all you can to remain healthy in the ‘D’ department.

Whether or not you get a full head of hair out of the deal, maintaining healthy levels of vitamin D can make a world of difference in your overall health and well-being.

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READ MORE: Vitamin D Deficiency and Seasonal Affective Disorder. . . and the Light at the End of the Tunnel