Episode 161

Published July 14, 2026

In this episode, Dr. Rubaina Dang and host Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton explore the root causes of hair loss in women, particularly the information that standard labs can miss. Dr. Dang and Dr. Smeaton also dive into the hormones driving hair loss, optimal versus “normal” lab levels, and the gut-skin-hair axis.

Their conversation also highlights:

• Dr. Dang’s recommended panels for anyone presenting with hair loss
• The key differences between “normal” and optimal lab ranges when it comes to hair health
• Stressors that can cause telogen effluvium, including illness, rapid weight loss, postpartum, or a major life event
• How gut dysbiosis and inflammation can affect hair follicles
• Dr. Dang’s rankings for popular hair-growth products and ingredients

Key Moments

0:52 Episode Introduction

2:39 Understanding Hair Loss: An Emotional Journey

5:44 The Gaps in Standard Medical Testing

8:25 The Role of Androgens in Hair Health

11:39 Cortisol and Stress: The Hidden Triggers

14:39 Postpartum Hair Loss: Hormonal Changes and Solutions

18:30 DUTCH Courses: Functional Hormone Testing

19:19 Thyroid Health and Hair Loss: Testing Beyond TSH

22:34 The Importance of Ferritin in Hair Health

25:51 Micronutrients and Toxins: The Overlooked Factors

28:53 The Impact of GLP-1 Medications on Hair Loss

31:35 Understanding Hair Loss and Hormonal Imbalances

37:27 The Role of Blood Sugar and Gut Health

44:28 Evaluating Hair Loss Treatments

About our speaker

Dr. Rubaina Dang is a licensed naturopathic doctor, educator, researcher, and speaker in the field of integrative medicine. Her practice centers on the gut, skin, and hormone connection, using functional medicine testing, targeted nutrition, and evidence-based supplementation to resolve concerns that are often missed or dismissed in conventional care. In addition to her clinical work, she is actively running clinical trials, is a contributing author to continuing medical education series, and a featured speaker at conferences nationwide. Dr. Dang is a recognized voice at the intersection of hormones, gut, skin, and integrative medicine. 

Show Notes

Learn more about Dr. Rubaina Dang and follow her on Instagram @healwithdrdang!

Read the study on ferritin and inflammation and check out our white paper on 5a-androstanediol.

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