Vitamin B6, one of seven B vitamins, aids in energy production, protein and fat metabolism and nervous system functioning. The skin, eyes, liver and hair require vitamin B6 for optimal health. Hair is composed of dead cells filled with protein. Vitamin B6 may help nourish hair for growth and prevent hair loss by metabolizing protein and increasing your stress tolerance.
Niacin
Vitamin B6 aids in converting tryptophan, an important protein, into niacin. Niacin is another B vitamin that aids in hair growth and overall hair health. When the body experiences a niacin deficiency or fails to produce enough niacin, the hair follicle cells become malnourished, according to Huntington College of Health Sciences. Malnourished hair can result in hair loss, breakage or retarded growth.
Anxiety and Stress
Anxiety and stress can cause thinning or loss of hair, according to University of Iowa. Vitamin B6 boosts your immune functioning and nervous system, increasing your body’s ability to adapt to life stressors. Additionally, vitamin B6 aids in the production of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters associated with regulating mood. When a deficiency in vitamin B6 is present, nervousness, memory loss, depression, problems concentrating and irritability may occur, increasing your risk of stress-induced hair loss.
Intake
The recommended daily allowance of vitamin B6 for adults is 1.3 milligrams, according to University of Maryland Medical Center. Rich sources of vitamin B6 include red meats, tuna, salmon, soy products, eggs, legumes, brewer’s yeast, potatoes, cheese, milk, bananas, liver and chili peppers. Additionally, taking a B-complex vitamin, a vitamin containing vitamin B6 and other B vitamins, daily may enhance the benefits of vitamin B6.
Warnings
Even with additional consumption of vitamin B6, your hair cannot withstand consistent damage. Excess coloring, washing, straightening, blowdrying, curling or brushing can cause your hair to become dry and brittle. Dry and brittle hair often develops split ends and breaks. Limit damage and consume adequate amounts of vitamin B6 to achieve optimal hair health and growth.
References
- University of Iowa; Vitamin B Complex Benefits – One of the Ways to Make Your Hair Grow Faster; August 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine); Steven Ehrlich; June 2009
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin B6
- Huntington College of Health Sciences; Have a “Good Hair Day”; Gene Bruno; 2009
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin B3; Steven Ehrlich; June 2009
- Rush University Medical Center: Hair Problems
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