Obtaining healthy and shiny hair isn't easy, as your hair is susceptible to a number of hair disorders such as alopecia, male pattern baldness and dry or brittle hair. To help combat hair disorders and keep your hair healthy, modify your diet to include various fruits and vegetables that are rich in a selection of vitamins, all effective in keeping your hair healthy, strong and shiny.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is one of the many antioxidant substances, aiding in the protection of your hair from free radicals, which can possibly damage your hair, causing it to become brittle and weak. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that vitamin C can be used to help treat and prevent hair disorders such as alopecia. Unfortunately, low intake of vitamin C in your diet may lead to splitting or dry hair related conditions. Raspberries, mango, cabbage, canned tomatoes, strawberries and oranges are all good sources of vitamin C.
Zinc
Zinc is essential for healthy hair, as it is also an antioxidant, helping to neutralize free radicals and ensuring that they will not damage your hair. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, you should make sure that you have an adequate supply of zinc in your diet, as a zinc deficiency can cause hair loss. Good sources of zinc include foods such as peanuts, cheese, tofu, green beans, oysters, mushrooms, pumpkin and red meats.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is also an antioxidant, important for blocking damage that free radicals may contribute to your hair. Natural News states that vitamin E is responsible for building hair capillaries in the body, while also helping to stimulate blood flow throughout your scalp, aiding in healthy hair growth. Vitamin E is added to numerous cosmetics for your hair, as it can help to make your hair shiny by improving its moisture. Vitamin E is found in foods like vegetable oils, seeds, wheat germ and spinach.
Vitamin H
Vitamin H or "biotin," helps to treat hair that is splitting or thin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Vitamin H is also important for treating hair conditions such as alopecia. Low intake of vitamin H in your diet can cause hair loss. Vitamin H is found in foods such as cauliflower, cooked eggs, whole grains and pecans.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC): Hair disorders; Steven D. Ehrlich; 2010
- MedlinePlus: Vitamin C
- Natural News: Vitamins Prevent Hair Loss: Vitamin A, B, C, D, and vitamin E; Melanie Grimes; 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC): Vitamin C; Steven D. Ehrlich; 2009
- MedlinePlus: Vitamin E
- University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC): Zinc
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