Like the rest of your body, healthy hair relies on adequate amounts of nutrition from a healthy diet. Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, is part of the B-complex group of vitamins. Although this vitamin does not promote new hair growth on its own, it works together with the other B vitamins to encourage the growth and maintenance of healthy skin and hair. A deficiency of this vitamin may cause your hair to lose color.
Folate and Folic Acid
Folate is a vitamin that exists naturally in certain food sources, including dark leafy greens, lima beans, orange juice, milk, wheat germ and root vegetables. Folic acid is the synthetic form of this vitamin. Fortified foods, such as certain grain and cereal products, along with vitamin supplements, contain this synthetic form of vitamin B9. Along with the other eight B vitamins, folic acid plays a role in supporting the optimal health of your nerves, eyes, liver, skin and hair. Most adults require 400 mcg of folic acid per day; pregnant and breastfeeding women require more.
Gray Hair
Although taking folic acid supplements may not result in long, luxurious locks of hair, a deficiency of this vitamin can cause your hair to turn prematurely gray. A mild deficiency can cause headache, fatigue and tongue soreness. A folate deficiency causes your red blood cells to grow larger than normal, causing a condition known as megaloblastic anemia. Hair that turns gray and curly is one of the more severe complications of this type of anemia.
Healthy Hair
B vitamins help your body metabolize carbohydrates, fats and protein. A B-complex vitamin daily can help reduce symptoms of hair disorders, including alopecia, male pattern baldness, hair shaft disorders and hirsutism, or excessive hairiness in women where hair does not usually grow.
Precautions
Talk to your doctor about any unusual symptoms of hair loss or sudden changes that affect the texture and appearance of your hair. Although B-vitamins, including folic acid, are generally safe for most people, these supplements may interact with the absorption of the antibiotic tetracycline, reducing its effectiveness. Excessive amounts of folic acid may cause skin reactions, insomnia and seizures.
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