A doctor has urged men experiencing hair loss to stop drinking a common type of beverage. Dr Neena Chandrasekaran, a pulmonary and critical care specialist, shared in a TikTok video part of a “Things They Don’t Tell You” series why some should cut down on sugary drinks.
She explains that according to recent studies, soda and energy drinks “can contribute to hair loss and anxiety in men”. This comes down to the amount of sugar and additives in the drinks, she explained. The doctor explained that the ingredients can “disrupt the balance of hormones within the body and negatively impact overall health.”
Researchers in China found links between high consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, including fizzy and energy drinks, and a higher likelihood of male pattern hair loss in young men.
The authors of the study noted that heavy intake of sugary drinks may contribute to biological stress and inflammatory processes that could influence hair health.
Dr Chandrasekaran also broke down the link between these sugary drinks and their effects on the body, which, while not necessarily a cause, could result in hair thinning and loss.
She added: “High caffeine content can increase cortisol levels, the stress hormone, while excess sugar is linked to poor circulation and inflammation, which can both weaken hair follicles and increase hair loss.”
High cortisol, a condition caused by excessive stress, combined with sugar-driven inflammation and reduced blood flow, creates conditions that can weaken the tiny hair follicles.
When follicles are compromised, this can directly contribute to hair thinning and shredding. However, these effects do not stop at the scalp; they can also affect other parts of the body.
Dr Chandrasekaran noted that high cortisol levels and sugar, together, can also “exacerbate feelings of anxiety and overstimulate the nervous system” which can also contribute to hair loss.
She explained: “The heightened state of stress also leads to hair loss as this creates more inflammation.”
As a final word of warning told her viewers, “If you notice yourself losing more hair and feeling more anxious, cut these products out.”