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What Vitamins Are Required For Better Hair Growth

Submitted by Loring A. Windblad on June 23, 2010

While vitamins help in the appearance of hair they do not necessarily promote hair growth. Research has shown that the healthier you are the healthier your hair will be. This reduces your chances of losing your hair. Good nutrition and vitamins are essential for beautiful hair.

Vitamins for Healthy Hair: One of the best vitamins for healthy hair that you can take is Vitamin B Complex - B6, B12, Biotin, and Folic Acid.


It prevents grey hair and boosts hair growth. Vitamin C is an antioxidant while beta carotene which changes to Vitamin A makes hair healthier. Hair follicles and roots require oxygen to keep growing.


Vitamin B and Vitamin E helps move oxygen through our bodies. Vitamin E is also an antioxidant and wards off free radicals. Iron, magnesium and zinc are all trace minerals that help the hair.


Do ensure that you are taking the right dosage as excessive amounts will prove detrimental. Ensure that your diet includes adequate protein as well. Protein deficiency results in brittle hair and loss of hair color.




Foods for Healthy Hair: As far as possible try and get the nutrients you need from foods and not from beauty supplements. Salmon is filled with Vitamin B-12, iron and omega-3 fatty acids. The latter are essential for the scalp. Those who follow a vegetarian diet will need to have ground flaxseed to ensure that they receive adequate amounts of this Vitamin. Dark green vegetables like broccoli, spinach and Swiss chard are excellent sources of Vitamin A, iron and calcium. Lentils and kidney beans are full of protein and have sufficient zinc, iron and biotin. Cashews, pecans, walnuts and almonds are excellent sources of zinc which prevent hair fall. Walnuts also contain alpha-linolenic acid that helps condition your hair. Turkey and chicken are high quality protein foods.

Diet for Healthy Hair: Eggs are one of the best sources of protein and also contain Vitamin B-12 and biotin. Whole grain cereals or whole grain bread are good sources of iron, zinc and Vitamin B. Oysters, surprisingly, also help in making hair healthier as they contain zinc. Beef and lamb do too. Calcium is important for hair growth and the chief sources are low fat dairy products. Carrots are an excellent source of Vitamin A. Halibut liver oil contains high amounts of Vitamins A and D. Apple cider vinegar has also been known to promote hair growth as it is rich in minerals, potassium and other vitamins which nourish the scalp.

Having the right vitamins will improve the hair you have and make it full, shiny and healthy. Keep in mind that what you put into your body counts just as much as what you put on your hair.

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