Your hair and nails grow slower in the winter than in summer months due to the lack of sunlight, but there are ways to speed up hair and nail growth. Certain vitamins and nutrients can aid in hair growth. Always consult with your physician before beginning a vitamin regimen to ensure you're receiving the proper amount of vitamins.
Biotin
Biotin, or vitamin H, aids in hair and fingernail growth, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin B complex contains biotin, but it can also be purchased as an individual vitamin; however, you may benefit from getting all of your B vitamins in when taking a vitamin B complex. Without biotin, you may experience thin, splitting hair and weak, brittle fingernails. The Mayo Clinic recommends taking 2.5 mg of biotin to help improve nails while the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that adults over 19 need 30 mcg of biotin for hair growth. Biotin can interact with other medications such as antibiotics and anticonvulsant medications. Speak with your health care provider prior to taking biotin if you're on any medications.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids also aid in hair growth, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Omega-6 fatty acids stimulate hair growth, regulate metabolism, maintain bone health and assists in maintaining your reproductive system. To balance your diet, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends consuming an equal amount of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Your body cannot produce Omega-6 fatty acids on its own. Vegetable oils containing linoleic acid are rich in Omega-6 fatty acids, according to the UMMC. Omega-6 fatty acids can interact with other medications, such as blood thinners, chemotherapy treatment drugs and certain antibiotics. Only take Omega-6 supplements under doctor supervision.
Other Vitamins
Vitamins C and E also support hair growth, according to the American Pregnancy Association. The American Pregnancy Association also recommends biotin and zinc to help stimulate hair growth. Vitamin C, zinc and vitamin E are usually found in multivitamins but you may also purchase them as individual supplements. Alternatively, you can obtain your daily servings of vitamin C by eating foods such as oranges, cabbage, pineapple, kiwi and broccoli. Broccoli and kiwi are good sources of vitamin E as well. Meats, nuts and other protein-rich foods contain zinc.
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