Vitamins and Hair Loss

There are a number of vitamins that are essential for a healthy hair growth cycle. However, it is important not to take excessive amounts as this can have a detrimental effect on the hair (as well as health). As hair loss cannot always be prevented by nutrition alone, if you are noticing thinning hair or balding, it is recommended you get an accurate diagnosis from a doctor or hair specialist.

Vitamin B12

Sources of B12 include liver, milk, eggs, poultry, fish, and shellfish. The only vegan sources of B12 that can be absorbed by the body are B12 supplements and foods fortified with B12 such as some soy products and some fortified cereals.

As well as coming in a standard vitamin pill form, B12 also comes in the supplement form of a liquid, nasal spray, injection and transdermal patch.

Biotin

Also known as Vitamin H or B7, biotin is necessary for cell growth, the production of fatty acids and the metabolism of fats and amino acids. Biotin also helps in maintaining a healthy blood sugar level and strengthens hair and nails. It is often found in skin and hair products. Biotin is often added to shampoos and hair products as a way to encourage hair growth; however the effect of this is questionable due to the fact that biotin cannot be well absorbed through the skin.

Research has found that a protein called Avidin inhibits the absorption of biotin. Avidin is found in raw egg white so it is best to avoid foods that contain this, such as mayonnaise and mousse.

Good dietary sources of Biotin include liver, brewer's yeast, brown rice, bulgur, green peas, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, carrots, lentils, oats, soybeans, sunflower seeds, and walnuts.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps to improve the scalp circulation by maintaining the capillaries that deliver blood (and nutrients) to the scalp.

Foods with highest levels of Vitamin C include blackcurrants, red peppers, broccoli, kiwi fruit, sprouts, lychees, papayas, strawberries, oranges, lemons, cantaloupe melons, cauliflower.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E increases the oxygen levels in the blood which improves the circulation to the scalp. This encourages a healthy hair growth cycle. The condition of hair is connected to the immune system and as Vitamin enhances the immune system, it is believed to help maintain healthy hair.

Vitamin E can be found in asparagus, avocado, eggs, milk, nuts, seeds, spinach,  wheat germ, pulses and green leafy vegetables.

Nutrition and hair loss

While it is essential to include these foods in your diet, if you are suffering from thinning hair or hair loss there may be other contributing factors.

Hair loss in men is a common condition that affects 2 in 3 men at some point in their lives. It can start as early as the teens, 20s and 30s. For the majority of men, baldness is a genetic condition which can only be successfully tackled with proven hair loss treatments.

For hair loss in women there are several factors that may play a part such as hormones, stress, pregnancy, and contraceptives. It is important to resolve the underlying cause while undertaking treatment. The Belgravia Centre has found that many of its female clients benefit from using a nutritional supplement called Hair Vitalics. This is not a stand alone treatment for hair loss but rather compliments proven products such as Minoxidil.