To get the precious micronutrients we call vitamins, people may take supplements and eat balanced meals. But besides just keeping you healthy, some vitamins can help in surprising ways. Vitamin E, for instance, may be known as a helper for your skin; however, it is also a booster for your immune system, a fighter against disruptive free radicals that can cause diseases, and it may even aid in hair health and growth.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants work to defend your body against free radicals, which are harmful components that can weaken your genetic material and possibly lead to death. This vitamin is a strong supporter of your immune system. Foods that contain vitamin E include leafy greens, vegetable oils and nuts. For a 2,000 calorie diet, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration advises a daily intake of 30 IU, or International Units, of vitamin E for adults and children as young as four years.
Hair Growth
John D. Kirschmann, author of the 2006 book "Nutrition Almanac," explains that healthy hair relies on circulation and blood quality. This may be one reason why vitamin E can offer a helping hand in hair growth. NaturalNews.com reports that vitamin E aids in blood vessel, or capillary growth. With an increased amount of capillaries comes an enhancement of circulation through the body, including to your scalp and to your hair follicles.
Recommendations
NaturalNews.com explains that vitamin E may also be able to promote healthy hair by helping to treat split ends, and that a small dab of vitamin E onto your hair every day after washing it can heal hair shafts. The 1999 guide "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living: A Practical A-To-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults," advises treating hair loss with vitamin E as well, stating that vitamin E is necessary for the health of your scalp and hair follicles. Authors Janet Zand, Allan N. Spreen and James B. LaValle explain that you should start with 200 IU of vitamin E supplements daily, and to double the amount after two weeks. If you're taking a blood thinner, first speak with your doctor about vitamin E supplements.
Avoid Synthetic Vitamin E
For best quality hair results, the authors of "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living" warn against using dl-alpha-tocopherol, a synthetic form of vitamin E. Instead, use either d-alpha-tocopoheryl or a combination of tocopherols. Tocopherols are the natural forms of vitamin E. However, The Vitamins and Nutrition Center website praises the most active form, d-alpha-tocopoheryl, explaining that your body's tissues store this form of vitamin E in higher concentrations than any other.
References
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Appendix F: Calculate the Percent Daily Value for the Appropriate Nutrients
- "Nutrition Almanac"; John D. Kirschmann; 2006
- NaturalNews.com; Vitamin E Grows Hair; Melanie Grimes; Jan. 29, 2010
- "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living: A Practical A-To-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults"; Janet Zand, Allan N. Spreen and James B. LaValle; 1999
- The Vitamins and Nutrition Center; Different Forms of Vitamin E; Dr. George Obikoya
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