The National Institutes of Health indicates that male pattern baldness is the most common cause of hair loss in men. Hair thinning usually occurs on the crown of your head, and you are also likely to notice a receding hairline. Hair thinning in males can be caused by hormones, as well as genetic predisposition. Vitamins are essential in maintaining healthy hair and scalp, as well as in preventing hair thinning and baldness in males.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays a crucial role in preventing hair thinning in males. A fat-soluble vitamin -- meaning it is stored in the fat cells of your body -- vitamin A contains beta carotene and retinol, according to "The Vitamin Book." These substances help to lubricate the hair roots with sebum oils. This helps to promote healthy hair follicles. Vitamin A also helps to provide you with healthy and shiny hair. Sources of vitamin A include spinach, cabbage, broccoli, carrots, milk and liver.
Vitamin B
If you visit the hair product aisle in your local drug store, almost all products will contain vitamin B. Vitamin B is also termed the vitamin B complex and consists of vitamins B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6 and B-12. These vitamins helps to metabolize foods in fuel sources that can be used by your body as well as help to maintain the health and overall functioning of your entire body -- including your hair follicles, according to "The Vitamin Book." Vitamin B can be found in beans, carrots, peas, nuts, cauliflower and eggs. A lack of vitamin B can cause dry, brittle and unhealthy hair.
Vitamin C
Also referred to as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is essential in promoting the health of your skin, hair and nails, according to "The Vitamin Book." The antioxidant properties of vitamin C can help strengthen your immune system as well as improve the health of your hair. Vitamin C helps to protect your hair from free radicals, which can attack and damage your hair follicles. Sources of vitamin C include citrus fruits, green vegetables, tomatoes, red peppers and berries.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E contains both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help leave your hair looking healthy. Vitamin E also helps to increase the circulation of blood throughout your body, according to "The Vitamin Book." Increased blood flow to your scalp can help nourish your hair follicles and prevent your hair from thinning. Blood and oxygen are essential for the proper growth of all portions of your body -- including your hair. Sources of vitamin E include oats, wheat germ, sunflower seeds, vegetable oil, canola oil, broccoli, kiwis, peanut butter and spinach.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Male Pattern Baldness
- "The Vitamin Book"; Harold Silverman, Joseph Romano and Gary Elmer; 1999
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