Taking the right amount of vitamins and nutrients is the key to keeping hair healthy and helping it to grow. According to the Huntington College of Health Sciences, hair is the fastest growing tissue in the human body, but if you are not getting enough nutrients, your locks can become brittle and prone to breakage. Keep your tresses healthy and strong with vitamins that promote growth, but check with your doctor before taking new supplements.
Vitamin H - Biotin
Vitamin H, also known as biotin, is part of the group of B vitamins that are essential for the health and growth of your hair. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that biotin supplements may help repair brittle strands, and that a deficiency of this nutrient can result in thinning hair. This vitamin can be consumed in the form of a supplement, or found naturally in foods like brown rice, bulgur, lentils, oats, soybeans and walnuts. Certain hair care products contain biotin as well, and are applied topically to encourage growth. In supplement form, the University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that adults take 30 mcg of biotin per day.
Vitamin C
A healthy scalp is essential for promoting hair growth. Holistic Online states that vitamin C helps to circulate blood in your scalp and stimulates the follicles encouraging new growth. Furthermore, the National Library of Medicine states that your body requires vitamin C to repair all of its tissues, including hair. A deficiency of vitamin C can result in dry, weak hair, as well as a flaking or irritated scalp. This vitamin can be found in many fruits and vegetables including green peppers, strawberries, tomatoes and pineapples, and the best way to get the adequate amounts in your diet is by consuming these types of foods daily. Vitamin C is also available as a supplement -- the National Library of Medicine recommends a daily dose of 75 mg for women over the age of 19, and 90 mg for adult men.
Vitamin E
Healthy, strong hair follicles will lead to better growth, and vitamin E aids in this necessary maintenance. The Huntington College of Health Sciences states that vitamin E stabilizes cell membranes and keeps your hair from becoming damaged while encouraging the overall health of your hair and scalp. It also has antioxidant properties that protect your hair from damaging free radicals and other harmful effects of the sun and environment. Holistic Online adds that vitamin E strengthens your immune system, which encourages your locks to grow. Food sources of vitamin E include nuts, seeds and leafy greens, or you can take a supplement of 50 to 400 IU per day.
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