In NZ the average age of menopause is 52, so from your late 40s - early 50s you may start experiencing symptoms. With a focus on your hair, what will happen as levels of oestrogen and progestogen drop, your hair will reach its telogen or ‘resting’ phase and growth begins to slow down. When this happens, the levels of androgens increase – these are a group of male hormones that shrink hair follicles, resulting in hair loss or thinning. If you take medication to control hormones, this can cause the texture of your hair to change too. The good news is that your hair will grow back! But keep in mind that stress, illness, genetics and lack of certain nutrients can also be a factor in changes to your hair during this time.

Add these nutrients to your diet to maintain healthy hair during Menopause:

• Protein-rich foods - To boost keratin production
• Vitamin C - To stimulate growth. Using products containing Vitamin C can help moisturize and repair your hair
• Vitamin A - For moisturising and keeping hair strong
• Vitamin B5 - To promote hair growth and can help with dandruff or an itchy scalp
• Zinc - A deficiency can lead to the breakdown of the protein structures in your hair follicle, which can lead to hair loss