Healthy hair does not just happen; it is a direct reflection of the health of the person it adorns. A healthy body that receives plenty of nourishment from a balanced diet produces healthy, fast-growing hair. Since most people find it difficult to ingest all of the vitamins their body needs through the intake of food alone, many look to vitamin supplements for the answer.
Iron
Hair receives the nourishment needed for growth via blood-rich follicles located in the scalp. While the hair itself does not directly benefit from the blood supply, good circulation is crucial in the development and growth of hair. Oxygen-rich blood supplies the hair follicle with everything necessary to produce healthy hair. Iron plays a key role in transporting oxygen along the blood stream and to important structures. Without enough iron, the body becomes anemic and is unable to perform certain functions successfully. Hair growth slows and suffers without an adequate supply of iron, resulting in brittle hair and hair loss.
Vitamin C
Hair needs vitamin C for two reasons: it aids in the absorption of iron and it is needed to create collagen. Collagen, a fibrous protein, lends strength and structural integrity to hair. Without vitamin C, the body cannot produce healthy, strong hair easily. According to The Vitamins and Nutrition Center, deficiencies in vital nutrients, such as vitamin C, can lead to breakage, thinning and hair loss.
Vitamin B-Complex
According to Lifescript.com, B6, B12, folate and biotin are essential for healthy hair. A diet lacking in these essential nutrients may lead to a vitamin deficiency and the symptoms that go along with it. Symptoms of vitamin B deficiency include brittleness, hair loss and slow hair growth. Additionally, B-complex vitamins are thought to promote quicker hair growth. The Vitamins Nutririon Center claims that a combination of B vitamins and amino acids enhances the genetic growth cycle.
Copper and Zinc
Melanin, the stuff that adds pigmentation and color to hair, is comprised of several key ingredients including copper. According to Lifescript.com, a diet lacking in copper may result in premature graying of the hair. Zinc, used for the growth and repair of tissues all through the body, is needed for hair growth as well. Symptoms of a zinc deficiency include slow hair growth, hair loss and dandruff.
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