IMPACT OF LIFESTYLE FACTORS, NUTRITIONAL CHOICES AND SUPPLEMENTS ON ALOPECIA AREATA: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Alopecia areata (AA) is a chronic, immune-mediated condition characterized by non-scarring hair loss which can significantly impact patients' quality of life. While its precise etiology remains elusive, emerging evidence suggests that various lifestyle factors may contribute to disease onset, progression, and severity. This review aims to synthesize current findings on the potential impact of modifiable lifestyle elements including smoking, alcohol consumption, psychological stress, sleep disturbances, physical activity, obesity, and diet on the pathogenesis and clinical course of AA. The role of specific micronutrients such as iron, vitamin D, zinc, B vitamins, and biotin is also examined. Although several studies suggest associations between these factors and AA, the evidence remains inconsistent and largely observational. At present, no definitive lifestyle modification guidelines can be proposed for AA patients. However, this review underscores the need for increased clinical awareness and further high-quality research to elucidate the mechanisms by which lifestyle and dietary habits may influence autoimmune processes involved in AA, with the ultimate goal of integrating holistic approaches into patient care.