Damaged, thinning and weak hair are problems millions of people have to live with every day. These issues can have a profound effect on a person’s self-worth and confidence, yet in many cases, making better dietary choices can go a long way in promoting good hair health.
A healthy diet is inextricably linked to a healthy head of hair. By making permanent changes to how you eat, you may find that the condition of your hair improves quickly. With that in mind, here are four nutrients that promote good hair health.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acid
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oils, and they are known to nourish and thicken hair. One of the key benefits delivered by a diet rich in these fatty acids is inflammation reduction. And because inflammation is a major cause of premature hair loss, eating lots of oily fish is a good way to improve your hair health.
Fortunately, it’s easy to load up on omega-3 fatty acids, as they are prevalent in salmon, mackerel, trout and sardines. Eggs, walnuts and hemps seeds are also rich sources of this essential nutrient.
2. Iron
According to research conducted at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences, women with anemia (iron deficiency) lost more hair than women with normal levels of iron in their blood. Iron is stored in a protein called ferritin. When ferritin levels fall below 30 mg, telogen hair loss is inevitable. While you can take iron supplements to redress the loss, you can eat more iron-rich foods to reverse the problem — including liver, red meat, fish, eggs, pulses, seeds and whole grains.
3. B Vitamins
Damage caused by washing drying and styling your hair is difficult to reverse. However, two nutrients that have a great chance of success are pantothenic acid and biotin. There is also evidence to suggest that pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) also promotes healthy adrenal glands, which are responsible for stimulating healthy hair growth.
4. Vitamin A
Vitamin A is needed for the healthy development of all human cells. It is the vitamin A in our bodies that stimulates the production of sebum in the skin. This oily substance moisturizes the scalp to maintain a healthy head of hair. You can ensure your skin gets the vitamin A it needs by eating a diet rich in carrots, pumpkins, kale, spinach and dairy products. Cod liver oil supplements are also a good source.
If your dietary changes don’t improve your hair health, it might be time to consult a hair loss specialist. At Transitions of Wisconsin, we specialize in proven hair loss treatment and hair restoration solutions for men, women and children. If you’re interested in scheduling a free consultation, contact us today!
Photo Credit: jill111 Via Pixabay
Sources:
https://www.buzzfeed.com/michaeljones070/3-essential-vitamins-and-minerals-for-hair-growth-39u1x?utm_term=.atpEMgmnQQ#.dhmp1YnoKK
https://www.medicinenet.com/ferritin_blood_test/article.htm
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/best-vitamins-hair-growth#section1
