Iron is found in a variety of foods, including red meat, beans, kale, and dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, and apricots. However, if you don't have enough iron in your blood, this can create numerous health problems, particularly in terms of your red blood cells and their ability to carry oxygen. With this in mind, some of the symptoms of low iron levels include lethargy and shortness of breath, and while it may surprise you, hair loss is also one of the tell-tale signs. In fact, your hair follicles need iron to help them grow, and research has shown that being iron deficient can lead to a loss of hair, especially for those who already have a genetic propensity to lose their hair in the future.

To that end, many women with heavy periods often experience an iron deficiency because of the large amounts of blood they lose each menstrual cycle, which is typically why it's rarer for postmenopausal women (and men in general) to experience this type of deficiency. However, while studies have demonstrated that taking iron supplements can help to prevent hair loss and even help to regrow hair that's fallen out, it's important to consult with your doctor before you begin to add any supplements to your daily regimen.