The average person’s hair grows six inches each year, according to Baylor College of Medicine. At any given time, approximately 85 percent of your hair grows in the phase of its growth cycle called anagen, reports Bryn Mawr College. The remaining 15 percent rests in either the catagen phase or falls out in the telogen phase. The growing phase of the cycle generally lasts two to seven years before resting and falling out for three to five months. While you can’t circumvent this cycle, you can maximize your hair growing potential. The key to getting the most hair growth lies in your health, getting adequate nutrition and managing your stress level.
Stay Healthy
Slow-growing, dry and thinning hair may indicate underactive thyroid function, known as hypothyroidism, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. Wash your hands often to avoid germs. Smoking and alcohol may weaken your immune system, and the toxins these substances contain may slow hair growth. Certain medications and treatments, including chemotherapy and radiation, also cause hair loss, also known as alopecia.
Adequate Nutrition
Your hair needs certain vitamins and nutrients including vitamin B complex, especially biotin, and vitamins A, C and E. Eating a balanced diet comprised of lean sources of protein, vegetables, fruits and whole grains will give your body most of the nutrients it needs to grow healthy hair, and taking a daily multivitamin can compensate for any nutritional deficiencies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Additionally, drinking the recommended six to eight glasses of water a day will help to improve the condition of your hair.
Stress
Excessive stress, like that caused by illness, long working hours, lack or sleep or anxiety, can shock your hair into prematurely entering the telegen phase, reports Columbia University Health Services. Develop relaxing hobbies or habits to help you unwind from daily stressors. In recent years, meditation and yoga have gained popularity as ways to relieve stress. However, your relaxation methods depend on your likes and dislikes. Taking a walk, playing games online or reading a book are all valid options that help some people unwind, and perhaps the most important tip for reducing stress it to get a full six to eight hours of sleep a night.
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