Root Cause Hair Loss Care
Functional Medicine for Hair Loss: Testing the Thyroid, Hormone, and Nutrient Causes
Hair thinning is frequently connected to thyroid dysfunction, hormonal shifts, or nutrient deficiencies, yet a standard dermatology visit rarely tests for these underlying causes. Functional medicine for hair loss evaluates the systems actually driving hair shedding. Julie McDonald, MMS, PA-C, FMACP, sees patients in-person in Marquette, MI and virtually in Michigan through the 12-Week Reset. The 12 Week Reset is our foundational program, and where every patient begins. Comprehensive bloodwork (including hormones) and genetic testing give us a clear picture of what’s driving how you feel — so we can build your specific plan across Nutrition, Sleep, Stress, Supplements, and Mindfulness, the foundation functional medicine builds on.
Trusted & loved by our patients.
Years of clinical experience
Testing Thyroid, Hormones, and Nutrients Together
Hair Loss Evaluation That Looks Past the Scalp
Hair follicles are highly sensitive to thyroid hormone, androgen levels, and nutrient status. Functional medicine for hair loss evaluates all of these directly, combined with genetic testing. Available in Marquette, Michigan and through fully virtual consultations in Michigan.
- Full thyroid panel, since both underactive and overactive thyroid commonly cause hair shedding
- Hormone panel evaluating estrogen, testosterone, and DHEA-S
- Nutrient testing for ferritin, vitamin D, zinc, and biotin
- Personalized protocol addressing the identified thyroid, hormone, or nutrient driver
Is This Right for You
Functional Medicine for Hair Loss Is for People Who Want to Know Why It's Happening
Hair Thinning That Started Gradually
Gradual, diffuse thinning across the scalp often reflects a systemic cause rather than a localized scalp issue.
Hair Loss Alongside Fatigue or Weight Changes
This combination frequently points to thyroid dysfunction affecting multiple systems at once.
Diagnosed With Hashimoto's or Thyroid Disease
Hair shedding is a common symptom of autoimmune thyroid disease. See our Hashimoto's page for more.
Postpartum or Perimenopausal Hair Shedding
Hormonal transitions are a well-documented trigger for temporary or ongoing hair loss that responds to targeted support.
Told Your Labs Are Normal Despite Visible Thinning
Standard panels often miss the ferritin, thyroid, and hormone thresholds specific to healthy hair growth.
Remote Patients Seeking Expert Care
We offer complete virtual hair loss evaluation in Michigan, with labs coordinated locally and consultations via telehealth.
Over 22 years of medical experience ★★★★★
The Monarch FM Process
How We Approach Functional Medicine for Hair Loss at Monarch FM
Hair loss is a visible symptom of an internal pattern. Our process tests thyroid, hormone, and nutrient status to identify that pattern, then builds a protocol around the actual cause.
- 22 Years of Clinical Experience
- MMS | PA-C | FMACP Certified Provider
- In-Person in Marquette, MI | Virtual in Michigan
Comprehensive Thyroid, Hormone, and Nutrient Testing
We evaluate thyroid function, hormone levels, and key nutrients, combined with genetic testing for relevant metabolic pathways.
Identifying the Root Cause
Julie McDonald determines whether thyroid dysfunction, hormonal imbalance, or nutrient deficiency is the primary driver of your hair loss.
Personalized Hair Loss Protocol
Your protocol addresses the identified driver directly, often combining targeted nutrient repletion, thyroid or hormone support, and dietary guidance.
Ongoing Monitoring and Adjustment
We retest key markers at intervals to confirm your protocol is addressing the underlying cause as hair growth cycles progress.
Why Monarch Functional Medicine
Hair Loss Usually Has an Identifiable, Treatable Cause.
Thyroid, hormone, and nutrient factors are among the most common and treatable causes of hair thinning. Related pages include hormone treatment, thyroid treatment, and Hashimoto’s.
Questions & Answers
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes hair loss in women?
Hair loss in women is commonly connected to thyroid dysfunction, hormonal shifts related to perimenopause or postpartum changes, iron or ferritin deficiency, and other nutrient gaps. Functional medicine for hair loss tests for these causes directly. At Monarch Functional Medicine, this includes thyroid, hormone, and nutrient testing alongside genetic analysis, available in Marquette, Michigan and virtually in Michigan.
How is this different from seeing a dermatologist?
A dermatologist typically evaluates the scalp and hair follicles directly, which is valuable for diagnosing certain scalp conditions. Functional medicine for hair loss complements this by testing the systemic thyroid, hormone, and nutrient factors that commonly drive diffuse hair thinning.
Can thyroid problems cause hair loss?
Yes. Both underactive and overactive thyroid function can cause hair shedding, and it is a common symptom in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. See our thyroid treatment page for a full evaluation approach.
Can hair loss be evaluated virtually?
Yes. Monarch Functional Medicine offers complete virtual hair loss evaluation in Michigan. Lab work is coordinated through a draw site near you, with consultations conducted via telehealth.
How long does it take to see improvement in hair loss?
Underlying labs often improve within 8 to 12 weeks of starting a personalized protocol, though visible hair regrowth typically takes longer given natural hair growth cycles, often 3 to 6 months or more.
Do I need a referral?
No referral is required. You can book a free 15-minute strategy call directly to discuss your symptoms and testing options.
What does treatment cost?
Care begins through the 12-Week Energy, Hormone and Metabolism Reset, (The 12 Week Reset is our foundational program, and where every patient begins. Comprehensive bloodwork (including hormones) and genetic testing give us a clear picture of what’s driving how you feel — so we can build your specific plan across Nutrition, Sleep, Stress, Supplements, and Mindfulness, the foundation functional medicine builds on), priced at $849 paid in full or three payments of $297, with additional testing available as needed.
What qualifies Julie McDonald to treat hormonal hair loss?
Julie McDonald holds a Master of Medical Science (MMS), is a board-certified PA-C with the FMACP designation, and has 22 years of clinical experience, with thyroid and hormone-related hair loss among her areas of focus. Learn more on the About Us page.
Patient Results
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The Monarch FM Standard
Clinical Expertise. Advanced Testing. A Protocol Built for You.
Julie McDonald is a MMS, PA-C, and FMACP with 22 years across Emergency, Family, and Internal Medicine. Monarch Functional Medicine runs the labs most providers never order, interprets them through a functional medicine lens, and builds a protocol specific to your biology. Learn more about Julie or book a free strategy call today.
Ready to Start
Hair Loss Has a Cause. Let's Test for It.
Functional medicine for hair loss at Monarch FM tests the thyroid, hormone, and nutrient factors behind hair thinning. See us in person in Marquette, MI or work with us virtually from anywhere in Michigan.
Join hundreds of patients who have reclaimed their energy, hormones, and health.
