Healthy Hair May Depend on What You Drink   

• Hair is more than just appearance for many people ? it is tied to confidence and identity. However, researchers say what we drink every day may quietly influence whether our hair stays strong or begins to thin. A large review of 17 studies involving more than 61,000 participants found that frequent soda consumption and heavy alcohol use are linked to higher risks of thinning hair. Sugary drinks can overstimulate oil glands on the scalp, clogging pores and weakening follicles. Alcohol, meanwhile, may block nutrient absorption and increase oxidative stress, robbing hair of its strength and color. Experts point to nutrients as important protectors. Vitamin D helps regulate growth cycles, iron improves oxygen flow to follicles, and protein provides the building blocks for keratin, the main structural fiber of hair. The findings highlight that scalp health begins in the kitchen, not the bathroom cabinet. Cutting down on soda and alcohol while focusing on balanced meals with lean proteins, vegetables, and fruit can help prevent early damage. For those already experiencing hair loss, medical options ? from nutritional supplements to advanced therapies ? may be necessary. But for many, small changes in daily habits may make the biggest difference in keeping hair strong. J.K. Park Staff Reporter junior/1758697499/1613368089