Seeing large amounts of hair in a comb or shower makes most people anxious. Unfortunately, hair loss usually is caused by genetics. Since it is not possible to change your lineage, vitamins might be a good alternative in the fight to maintain your head of hair. Fortunately, the vitamins that are associated with minimizing hair loss can be found in many foods that are a part of a healthy diet. The vitamins also come in supplement form and, therefore, easily can be added to your diet.
Layers of Hair
The number of hair follicles covering the head of an adult is believed to be about 100,000. Each individual hair growing from a hair follicle is comprised of layers including the medulla, which is located beneath the skin and not present in finer hair; the cortex, the center of the hair and the majority of the shaft; and the cuticle, which protects the other layers.
Hair Growth
When hair is in its anagen phase, it is growing actively. When hair falls from the head at a normal rate, which is about 100 hairs a day, it is known as the hair's catagen phase. Following this is the telogen phase, when the hair follicle rests and stays put.
Vitamin B
Certain foods and vitamin B supplements are recommended for not only maintaining the growth of hair, but for its health as well. Soybeans, carrots, bran and cauliflower are all foods containing B vitamins. Suggested dosage of a vitamin B supplement is 50 mg taken three times each day.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is believed to enhance the body's oxygen absorption, thus improving the circulation flow through the body, including the scalp. A healthier scalp can mean healthier hair, which in turn improves hair's growth. The amount of vitamin E that is generally suggested to begin with is 400 IU per day.
Vitamin A
An insufficient amount of vitamin A in the body can lead to unhealthy hair cells. Such things as air pollution and smoking can lead to lower amounts of vitamin A in the body. Vegetables that are orange or red in color, eggs, and fish oil all can help replenish vitamin A and possibly lead to healthier hair.
Vitamin C
Collagen is a protein that is important for holding the tissue in the body together. Keeping this protein at healthy levels requires a regular intake of vitamin C. Insufficient amounts of vitamin C in the body can cause hair that is more prone to breaking and may cause hair loss. Eating foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes and fresh peppers can help to restore vitamin C levels in the body.
Biotin
Many products for hair care contain biotin in their ingredients. Biotin may help reduce hair loss and may even increase hair growth. Consuming foods like cow's milk, strawberries, eggs and oats can help increase the amount of biotin in the body.
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