Certain vitamin deficiencies can cause hair thinning and hair loss. Fortunately, if you figure out what vitamins you need more of, your hair may start growing back more quickly. Of course, you should eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water but sometimes you just can’t get all the nutrients you need in a day.
You should also be sure to see a doctor to get some blood work done to find out if you have any vitamin deficiencies. Often, something simple like a multivitamin can also help you fill in the gaps in your diet. However, there are times when you may also need to take a supplement of the vitamin that you are deficient in. Let’s go over some of the top vitamin deficiencies related to hair problems.
Iron
Many people, especially women, are deficient in iron. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you should probably be taking an iron supplement because most people get iron from meat. It is also helpful to start taking vitamin C when you take iron because vitamin C can help the body absorb more iron. Just be careful with how much you consume. Too much iron can cause stomach problems.
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that a lot of people are deficient in as well. Zinc helps with protein synthesis and cell division which is important for hair follicle growth. If you have a zinc deficiency your hair may also feel very brittle.
Vitamin D
This is a big one. Vitamin D deficiencies are one of the leading causes of hair loss. Vitamin D helps your hair follicle cycle. Your hair follicles have a natural cycle of growth and shedding and being deficient in certain vitamins and minerals can disrupt this cycle.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps activate hair follicles which helps your hair grow. However, too high levels of vitamin A can also lead to hair loss. Be sure to get a recommended amount. You can likely get enough from your diet and a multivitamin.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a great antioxidant that protects your hair from environmental stressors. Antioxidants in general are a great way to protect your hair from damage from hot tools, the outdoors, and normal stress.
Biotin
There is a reason why many hair growth supplements contain biotin. If you don’t get enough, you could see hair loss or your hair will just stop growing. However, a true biotin deficiency where your body isn’t making any is very rare.
Other important nutrients and vitamins to note are fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Fatty acids are very important for your heart and brain health. They can also help with your hair growth. Selenium is also an important element that helps protect from damage and can increase hair growth. Studies have shown that those deficient in selenium may see hair loss.
If your doctor has ruled out any vitamin deficiencies, you should be getting enough nutrients from a multivitamin and a balanced diet.
Are you deficient in any of these vitamins and minerals? Have you noticed a link to hair problems?
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