04/09/2026
“WHY DOES LEAD KEEP SHOWING UP IN MY TRICH CLIENTS?”
I’ve reviewed 50+ functional heavy-metal tests from people with Trichotillomania this year.
And there is ONE metal that keeps getting my attention.
LEAD. 🚩
Not once, not twice, not even 95% of them. ALL of them!!!
Now before anyone jumps to conclusions:
Am I saying lead causes Trichotillomania? NO.
We don’t have research showing that.
But here’s why I find the pattern so damn interesting…
Lead is a neurotoxin.
Research has associated lead exposure with disruption of neurotransmitter systems, including dopamine, and with differences in attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity and inhibitory control.
And then we look at Trichotillomania.
Research suggests Trich involves altered reward and habit circuitry, and researchers have even described two different components of pulling:
“WANTING” the pull — the urge, craving, searching and anticipation.
versus
“LIKING” the pull — the reward or gratification afterwards.
And dopamine is particularly interesting in that wanting/seeking side of reward.
So here’s the question going around in my head:
What happens when a neurotoxin capable of disrupting dopamine and other neurotransmitter systems meets a brain already vulnerable to repetitive reward-seeking and habit behaviours?
I DON’T KNOW.
And that’s the point.
I don’t have research showing me that lead is causing my clients to pull their hair.
But after seeing the same pattern over and over again, I sure as hell want to know WHY.
This is what looking at Trich through a different lens looks like.
Notice patterns.
Ask questions.
Connect dots.
And when we start treating these underlying issues, the pulling dissipates!!
Comment or DM ‘RECOVERY’ did our personalised program details. We can help stop the urge to pull.
Laura - Trichy Nutrition 🩵