Adequate nutrient intake is very important to ensure that hair stays strong, hydrated and healthy. Not consuming enough of the right nutrients can result in dry and brittle hair that will appear weak and unhealthy. Fortunately, there are a number of vitamins that can assist in keeping the hair healthy.
Vitamin A
This fat-soluble vitamin comes in the form of retinoids, found in animal sources, and carotenoids, found in a variety of fruits and vegetables. Mayo Clinic says that research suggests that vitamin A lowers mortality rate from measles, may prevent some forms of cancer and improves functioning of the immune system. Vitamin A is well known for promoting good vision. Vitamin A is involved in the growth and maintenance of your hair by regulating retinoic acid that is found in the hair follicle, according to Natural News. It is beneficial for hair growth and can be massaged into the scalp or taken internally. Vitamin A also helps with the production of sebum, which is the natural oils on the face and scalp.
B Vitamins
All B vitamins help the body to make energy by converting carbohydrates into fuel and are necessary for healthy hair, skin and eyes and to metabolize proteins, fats and amino acids. They also help the body cope with stress, which is a contributor to hair loss. Vitamin B12 helps in strengthening the hair and prevents hair loss due to the fact that it is a component of the hair itself. It also helps in creating DNA and ensuring that the nervous system is functioning properly. A lack of vitamin B12 or biotin can cause hair loss, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps to build capillaries in the body and also enhances blood circulation in the scalp, allowing hair to grow healthy and quickly. The additional nutrients in vitamin E can also help to treat dry and split hair. It also contains antioxidants and helps to fight off unstable substances called free radicals that can cause damage the to hair. Vitamin E has been proposed to treat and prevent numerous health conditions such as heart disease and cancer, as well.
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