Does Eating Rice Cause Hair Loss? Exploring the Evidence
There is a lot of confusion around whether rice is good or bad for your hair health.
Some say it promotes hair growth and thickening, while others say it can cause excessive hair loss.
Rice contains carbohydrates, vitamin B, folic acid, iron, and zinc, which may promote hair growth.
If you also need clarification about whether to eat rice or not. Don’t worry!
The following article discusses whether does eating rice cause hair loss and how you can use rice to promote hair growth.
Can eating white rice lead to hair loss?
There is no direct evidence that shows that eating white rice can cause hair loss.
But, white rice belongs to the group of foods with a high Glycemic index, which has been shown to cause hair loss.
Foods with high GI can cause an increase in the levels of Insulin ( a hormone that controls blood sugar level).
The high levels of Insulin increases the blood sugar level in the blood.
High blood sugar can cause cell and tissue breakage, including hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
Hence, eating foods with high GI, like sugary foods, soft drinks, white rice, and potatoes, can cause hair loss.
Eating high-GI foods can also cause high Androgen (male hormone) production.
These Androgens bind to the hair follicles, causing them to shrink, which leads to hair fall.
Also read: The connection between eating rice and hair loss is still up for debate. To explore the potential causes of your hair loss, read our informative article, “Why is My Hair Falling Out – Complete Guide.”
Topical application of rice for hair growth
While eating white rice can cause hair loss, evidence shows that applying rice and its products can promote hair growth.
According to a 2022 review study, topically applying rice promotes hair growth factors that keep the hair follicles in the growth phase.
It also blocks the messengers that can lead to hair fall and treats inflammation in the scalp to promote hair growth.
A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science stated that Japanese women in the ancient period of 794-1185 CE used rice water to rinse their long hair.
Rice water is rich in starch, amino acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that work to promote hair growth.
The amino acids form the base of protein needed to form hair strands, while vitamins and minerals help to nourish the scalp and reduce hair loss.
Antioxidants promote blood circulation in the scalp to stimulate new hair growth.
Hence, applying rice and rice products to your hair can reduce hair loss and stimulate growth.
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How to use rice for hair growth?
Using rice for hair growth involves preparing rice paste or rice water and applying it to your hair and scalp.
For rice paste
You can follow the below step to make a rice paste to promote hair growth,
- Take a small amount of soaked rice grains and blend them in a blender or food processor until you get a smooth paste
- Apply the rice paste directly to your scalp and hair, focusing on the roots and areas where you want to promote hair growth
- Leave the rice paste on your hair for 15-30 minutes
- Rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water
- Shampoo and condition your hair as usual
Also read: Discover natural ways to boost hair growth with herbs in this article, “Promote Hair Growth Using Natural Herbs,” and learn how to improve your hair health.
For rice water
Follow the below steps to apply rice water for hair growth,
- Rinse and soak half a cup of rice and rinse it to remove any impurities
- Let the rice soak in about 2-3 cups of water for about 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Strain the rice water into a clean container with a fine-mesh strainer to separate the rice water from the rice grains
- This collected rice water will be used for the application
- After shampooing your hair, pour the rice water over your scalp and hair. Gently massage it into your scalp for a few minutes
- Let the rice water stay on your hair for 5-10 minutes, and rinse thoroughly with plain water
Conclusion
Eating rice is indirectly linked to hair loss.
It is a food with a high Glycemic Index. But rice products like rice water and rice barn can promote hair growth.
Hence, if you want to use rice, use rice paste or rice water to apply to the hair.
They contain essential nutrients that reduce hair fall and improve the overall hair appearance.
In case you are experiencing excessive hair loss, consult your doctor for the right treatment guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is eating rice good for hair?
No, eating rice is not good for hair. Rice has a high Glycemic index which can increase the levels of Insulin and androgens in the blood. These may damage the hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
Does rice thicken hair?
There is limited evidence to suggest that rice can directly thicken hair. However, incorporating nutrient-rich rice water or rice paste into a hair care routine may provide nourishment and promote healthier hair, which can contribute to the appearance of thicker hair.
Does rice help regrow hair?
Rice may not directly help regrow hair. But rice water and rice paste, rich in amino acids, starch, and vitamins, can nourish the hair follicles and scalp to promote hair growth.
How can I thicken my hair in 7 days?
To thicken your hair in 7 days, try nutrient-rich remedies like eggs, olive oil, and castor oil, along with aloe gel and avocado. While these can help, a concrete treatment like Hair 4u 2% (Minoxidil) may offer more lasting results for hair growth.
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