Thank you for the excellent question. This is an often asked question, a question with many hypotheses and even more "research-seems-to-show" answers yet a distinct lack of solid unbiased research-based answer. The truth of the matter is that it is unknown. There are some thoughts and even less solid research suggesting that diets low in processed foods, low in polyunsaturated fats, low in artificial sweeteners, and low in gluten as well as diets high in anti-inflammatory foods (such as the Mediterranean diet) can be helpful since the condition is auto-immune mediated. However, actual case studies and research are slim. There was a 2020 case study following a 8 year old boy with alopecia areata who reportedly achieved complete remission after following a diet composed of whole, unrefined foods and supplementing with vitamin D, zinc, and other micronutrients for 5 months. However, the author of the case study received consultancy fees and stock options from the company that manufactured the supplement used to treat the patient.