Vitamins For Hair

What vitamins to take to grow or strengthen eyelashes and hair?
Weak eyelashes or hair loss (alopecia) can happen for different reasons in women than in men, and result from a variety of factors including: hormonal imbalances; stress (emotional or physical); thyroid disorders; alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition); androgenic (androgenetic) alopecia or ‘female pattern baldness’ (also known as ‘hereditary balding,’ though heredity (genetics) is only one component); nutritional deficiencies (typically iron or certain B vitamins); immune system problems; allergic reactions; infections; surgery; and/or side effects of some medications.

Many infections and disorders can affect your hair, nails and eyelash growth – often interrupting the growth cycle by decreasing it’s speed or causing damaged cells and hair follicles. Fortunately, there is a selection of vitamins you can supplement into your diet which helps to promote regular growth of your nails, hair and eyelashes.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid)

Vitamin C is water-soluble, meaning it is not stored inside your body. You should have a continuous supply of it in your diet to help keep levels of vitamin C high. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, low vitamin C intake can result in dry and splitting hair. Vitamin C assists your body in the absorption of iron ( which is important for normal hair growth and maintenance of your hair). In addition, vitamin C is an antioxidant vitamin, neutralizing free radicals – unstable substances which may cause your hair, nails and eyelashes to become brittle. Good sources of vitamin C include oranges, cranberries, potatoes, watermelon and kiwi.

Vitamin H (Biotin)

Vitamin H, or biotin, is part of the B group of complex vitamins. B vitamins are necessary for healthy hair and nails, as it’s essential for helping to strengthen nails and hair that are weak. Vitamin H may also be able to help improve hair and nails that are thin or splitting. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, symptoms of vitamin H deficiency may include hair loss. Good sources of vitamin H include legumes, mushrooms and whole grains.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E, just like vitamin C, is an antioxidant vitamin and helps to defend your body against free radicals. Vitamin E is believed to boost the speed of hair growth by enhancing blood circulation in your scalp. Vitamin E can be found in most nuts and seeds.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D, also referred to as the “sunshine” vitamin, is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps your body absorb calcium. MedlinePlus says that vitamin D is found in foods like fish, cheese and fortified cereals. Vitamin D can help to reduce hair loss by stimulating your cells and hair follicles.