Do you really need vitamins to help your hair grow? Yes, you do. In fact, healthy hair requires several vitamins for growth and health. If you are not receiving sufficient vitamins, it will reflect in your hair as well as in your body. Healthy hair grows about 0.35ml a day, and without a steady supply of the vitamins your hair needs, not only will it virtually stop growing, it may even begin to fall out.
B Vitamins
B vitamins are one of the best vitamins for hair growth. They include niacin (vitamin B-3), which promotes healthy blood circulation to the scalp--this carries other vitamins, minerals and nutrients needed for healthy hair; panthenol (vitamin B-5) which may help stop hair loss and aid in hair re-growth; biotin, which is essential for preventing hair loss and may help prevent your hair from turning gray prematurely; and vitamins B-6 and B-12. B vitamins can be found in peas, beans, carrots, soy beans, nuts and eggs. While excess amounts of most B vitamins are excreted in the urine, taking too much niacin, vitamin B-6 and vitamin B-9 can cause vitamin toxicity.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is considered beneficial for hair loss as it works to increase blood circulation by stimulating the scalp. It is also believed to enhance the immune system, which can also help prevent hair loss. Most people will receive sufficient amounts of vitamin E in their diets if they include green vegetables, nuts and whole grains in their diets. Women who are trying to become pregnant should avoid taking supplemental vitamin E as it has been proven that it can contribute to congenital heart defects in the fetus when taken during the time of fertilization.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A works to keep the hair follicle lubricated, which adds to the healthy appearance of your hair. Vitamin A is also essential for healthy skin and vision. It is found in yellow, red and orange vegetables and in green, leafy vegetables. Overuse of vitamin A, however, can lead to . This hair loss can be reversed by simply cutting down on the amount of vitamin A you are taking. Taking too much vitamin A can also cause nausea, vomiting, headaches and altered states of consciousness.
Biotin
Biotin is a very important vitamin for maintaining healthy hair. It is essential for healthy skin and hair and may even be a factor in preventing hair loss in some men. You can either increase your intake of biotin by increasing it in your diet, or you can take it in supplemental form. Foods that are a good source of biotin include brown rice, green peas, oats, lentils, brewer's yeast, bulgur, soybeans, walnuts and sunflower seeds.
Other Vitamins
There are several other vitamins and minerals that may contribute to hair growth. These include zinc, vitamin C, L-Cysteine, L-methionine, folic acid, magnesium, sulfur, silica and beta-carotene.
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