Hair grows an average of a third of a millimeter per day, according to the Vitamins and Nutrition Center. Each hair shaft is produced by a single follicle, after which, the follicle is torn down and a new one is built. This new follicle builds the next length in the hair shaft, and on it goes as the hair grows longer. Certain vitamins help to maintain healthy follicles and strong hair.
Beta-Carotene
Vitamin A is necessary in the production of healthy hair, but is hard to find naturally. Beta-carotene, found in most colored fruits and vegetables, is converted into vitamin A in our bodies. Beta-carotene also acts as one of the more effective antioxidants, which may contribute to strong hair. The Vitamin and Nutrition Center recommends 10,000 to 15,000 IU of beta-carotene daily.
Vitamin B6
Keeping a good supply of blood flowing to the hair follicle results in strong hair growth. VitaminStuff.com states that vitamin B6, or pyroxidine, may be crucial to maintaining good circulatory and cardiovascular health. It notes that vitamin B6 is needed in more bodily functions than almost any other vitamin. Pyroxidine can be found in meats, fish, eggs, whole grains and potatoes. A daily dose of 50 mg of B6 each day may contribute to strong and healthy hair.
Inositol
Inositol plays an important role in hair development. Part of the B-complex of vitamins, inositol works with choline to make lecithin, which forms cell membranes. Intestinal bacteria and plant fiber convert to inositol in the body. Consuming too much coffee, or caffeine, may decrease the amount of inositol in your body. A form of inositol may be found in food sources such as cantaloupe, oranges, grapefruits, oats, liver, veal and whole grains. Inositol may be taken as a supplement on its own or may be combined with lecithin compounds.
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