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What Vitamin Is Good for Hair?

Nutrition is an important part of having healthy hair. According to Dr. Obikoya of vitamins-nutrition.org, "metabolic requirements of the cells of the hair follicle must be met or adequate and optimal hair growth will not occur." There are a number of vitamin supplements you can take that will ensure your metabolic requirements are met.

  1. Vitamins

    • Beta-carotene and vitamin B-complex have been known to stimulate hair growth and help to create the shiny outside layer of the hair follicle. Most health food and vitamin stores stock a hair, skin and nails multivitamin that contains beta-carotene and vitamin b-complex as well as biotin. Dr. Obikoya's research has shown that vitamin C, vitamin E and a daily dose of magnesium, sulfur and zinc are also important for growing healthy hair.

    Benefits

    • Taking the right supplements has benefits beyond aesthetics. Problems with hair, as well as skin and nails, can often mean your body is lacking vitamins. By taking a supplement, your hair will grow healthier and so will your body. Many of the vitamins that are vital for hair growth, such as biotin, also improve hair and nails. The improvements of hair, skin and nails will eliminate the need for specialty beauty products that only mask the problem.

    Facts

    • Taking vitamins may aid your body in producing healthier and optimum hair growth, however, hair does not typically grow more than half an inch per month. If you are not deficient in any of the aforementioned vitamins, your body will not absorb them, and it is unlikely that you will experience healthier hair or faster hair growth.

    Considerations

    • Before purchasing a variety of supplements that may help your hair growth, consider your diet and exercise. While taking supplements may solve part of the problem, developing a habit of eating healthy foods that are rich in the nutrients your hair needs is a wiser choice. Beta carotene can be found in foods like sweet potato, carrots and spinach. Egg yolks contain biotin, and citrus contains vitamin C. Exercise, also part of healthy living, improves circulation, which is vital to hair growth. A lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and exercise is much more natural than a plate full of supplements every morning.

    Warning

    • Slow hair growth or unhealthy hair can be an indicator of more serious health problems. See your health-care provider before starting any supplements.

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