Friday, August 21, 2026

Common Causes of Hair Thinning and What to Do About Them


Depending on the reason for your hair loss, there may be solutions that help.

Hair loss is something many people experience as they get older, but it can happen at almost any age. Both men and women may notice their hair becoming less full, their part widening or their hairline changing over time.

Finding hair in your brush, shower drain or on your pillow can be unsettling, but the good news is that hair thinning isn’t always permanent. In some cases, it can be slowed down or even reversed, depending on the cause. Understanding why it’s happening is the first step toward finding the right solution.

Here are some reasons that people may start losing hair.

Family History and Aging

One of the most common causes of hair thinning is genetics. This condition, often called pattern hair loss, affects both men and women. Men may notice a receding hairline or thinning at the crown of the head. Women often see overall thinning, especially along the part.

As people age, hair also naturally becomes finer and grows more slowly. While genetics can’t be changed, treatments may help slow hair loss and encourage new growth. Over-the-counter products containing minoxidil are commonly used. Prescription medications may also be an option for some people.

Stress and Illness

Major physical or emotional stress can sometimes trigger temporary hair shedding. This might happen after surgery, a serious illness, a high fever, significant weight loss or a stressful life event.

This type of hair loss often appears a few months after the stressful event. Although it can be alarming, the hair usually begins growing back once the body recovers and stress levels improve. Getting enough sleep, managing stress and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can support hair regrowth.

Poor Nutrition

Your hair needs nutrients to grow. Crash diets and rapid weight loss plans can sometimes lead to noticeable hair loss due to not getting enough protein, iron, zinc or certain vitamins.

Eating a balanced diet that includes lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats supports healthy hair growth. Talk to a healthcare provider before taking supplements.

Hormone Changes

Hormonal shifts can play a major role in hair thinning, especially in women. Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause and some medical conditions may affect hormone levels and hair growth. Men can also experience hormone-related hair loss.

A healthcare provider can help identify whether hormone changes are contributing to hair loss and discuss possible treatment options.

Medical Conditions and Medications

Some health conditions can cause hair thinning, including thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases and scalp conditions. Some medications may also contribute to hair loss, including some drugs used for blood pressure, depression, arthritis and other conditions.

If you notice hair thinning after starting a new medication, don’t stop taking it before talking with your healthcare provider about your concerns.

Hair Care Habits

Some styling practices can damage hair and lead to thinning over time. Tight ponytails, braids, extensions and frequent use of harsh chemicals or heat styling tools can put stress on the hair and scalp.

Treating hair gently may help reduce further damage. Consider limiting heat styling, avoiding overly tight hairstyles and using products designed for your hair type.

When to Seek Help

If hair thinning is sudden, severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider or dermatologist. They can identify the cause and recommend treatments that may improve hair growth or prevent further loss. The sooner the cause is identified, the more options may be available. While not every type of hair loss can be reversed, many people can improve the health and appearance of their hair.

Copyright 2026 © Baldwin Publishing, Inc.  Health eCooks® Heart Healthy Recipes® is a registered trademark of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein without the express approval of Baldwin Publishing, Inc. is strictly prohibited.



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Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant Funds Available

Applications must be received by Sept. 15, 2026

(JEFFERSON CITY, Mo.) – The Missouri Department of Agriculture has announced the availability of Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant funds. A competitive grant program, the Urban Agriculture Cost-Share Grant will fund projects that demonstrate economic benefit and potential for sustainable revenue generation and job creation.

Examples of projects include developing small agribusinesses, implementing production infrastructure, creating direct distribution venues, developing agricultural workforce, or providing training and development skills for agricultural business sustainability. It may also include introducing a new crop or product to an area, expanding the use of an agricultural product or adding value to agricultural products.

The Department will award grants of up to $10,000 for reimbursement of eligible project expenses. Applicants will be reimbursed for up to 75% of the total project expenses made during the grant period. Applications are due by Sep. 15, 2026 and awarded projects must be complete or near completion by May 15, 2027.

Projects must be in an area that is designated as an urban area by the 2020 United States Census Bureau. If you have questions about your location qualifying, please reach out to the Agriculture Business Development Division at abd@mda.mo.gov or call (573) 751-4762.

The application, grant guidelines and more information can be found on the grant website.

To learn more about the Missouri Department of Agriculture and its programs, please visit the Department’s website.



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Fall nitrogen or hay? Run the numbers...


Nitrogen prices have risen more than 40% in recent months, causing many livestock producers to take a closer look at fall fertility decisions.
Research shows fall nitrogen applications can increase stockpiled tall fescue yields, but the return on investment depends on fertilizer costs, hay prices and growing conditions.
To compare costs and make an informed decision based on your specific situation, use the formula in this article: https://brnw.ch/21x532M


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Thursday, August 20, 2026

Reminder: Montrose schools open house this afternoon


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Henry County Sheriff's Office seeks help in missing juvenile case


The Henry County Sheriff’s Office is currently attempting to locate 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐲𝐧 𝐏𝐢𝐞𝐫𝐬, age 13, who was last seen at approximately 2:30 a.m. this morning leaving the 400 block of West Florence Street in Windsor.
Description:
• 5'6", approximately 130 lbs.
• Blonde hair, brown eyes
• Blue jeans with butterflies on the back pockets
• White tube top with a red stain
• Carrying a blue blanket
• No shoes
Family members are unsure whether Mattilyn left the area on foot or may have been picked up by someone. She does not appear to have a cell phone with her.
One of the attached photographs showing Mattilyn in the white top is the most recent image available.
If you have seen Mattilyn, know where she may be, or have any information that could assist deputies in locating her, please contact the Henry County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 660-885-5587.
PLEASE NOTE: If you have information regarding Mattilyn’s whereabouts, please contact Henry County Central Dispatch at 660-885-5587.


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Reminder: Miami R-1 open house this evening


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Butler man pleads guilty in child sexual abuse case

George William Lewis

George Lewis, 42 of Butler has pleaded guilty to rape and child sexual abuse with a child under the age of 15. Lewis also pleaded guilty in two counts of Distribution of a controlled Substance in a Protected Location.

Lewis was sentenced in a plea agreement to serve 10 years on the sex charges and 15 years for the drug charges. These sentences are to run concurrently and Lewis must serve 85 percent of this sentence.

Two other cases with recent sentencing in the Bates County Circuit Court:

July 27, 2026 Judge Brandon Baker sentenced 53-year-old Monty Fish of Rich Hill to 3 five year sentences on charges of possession of controlled substance and Domestic Assault with sentences to run concurrently.

43-year-old Sean Patrick O’Riley of Archie, Missouri was sentenced to 8 years in the Missouri Department of Corrections for receiving stolen property. O’Riley was charged with stealing a John Deere backhoe from KCP Pipeline LLC in Kansas City Missouri.
  




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Christopher Cutshaw pleads guilty in 2021 Amsterdam shooting death

Christopher Estell Cutshaw 30, of Louisburg, Kansas pleaded guilty on Friday August 14, 2026, to second degree murder in the death of Michael Ryan Strup.

Cutshaw shot Strup New Years Eve 2021 in Amsterdam, Missouri and has been held in the Bates County Jail since the charges were filed.

In a plea agreement agreed to by the Defendant, Cutshaw will serve 17 years on the second-degree murder charge and 5 years for armed criminal action with a deadly weapon. Sentences are to run concurrently and he must serve 85 percent on the second-degree murder plea with credit for time served.

Cutshaw was represented by Public Defender Jeffrey Martin of Harrisonville, MO and has been transported to the Missouri Department of Corrections by the Bates County Sheriff's Office.


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