Hair is made entirely of protein. If you are not getting enough protein, it can cause slow hair growth and even hair loss. There are several vitamins and minerals that are tied to hair growth. Make sure that you are getting enough of the following to ensure healthy circulation, cellular growth and repair. Here is a list of the top nutrients that will ensure health hair growth:
ZINC
Zinc is essential for hair tissue growth and repair. It also helps keep the oil glands around the follicles working properly.
IRON
Iron deficiency is a major cause of hair loss, especially in women. The best sources of iron include clams, oysters, eggs, red meat, spinach and lentils.
VITAMIN A
Vitamin A helps the skin glands make an oily substance called sebum. Sebum moisturizes the scalp and helps keep hair healthy.
B VITAMINS
One of the best known vitamins for hair growth is a B-vitamin called biotin. Studies link biotin deficiency with hair loss in humans.
VITAMIN C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant. Our body needs vitamin C to create a protein known as collagen — an important part of hair structure. Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron, a mineral necessary for hair growth.
VITAMIN D
Research shows that vitamin D may help create new follicles — the tiny pores in the scalp where new hair can grow.
VITAMIN E
Studies have shown that people with hair loss experienced a 34.5% increase in hair growth after supplementing with vitamin E for 8 months.
ESSENTIAL OILS
Other studies have shown that essential oils like peppermint, rosemary and pumpkin seed oil can strengthen hair and increase growth. Do not apply directly. Use a carrier oil like olive, sunflower or coconut oil.
CAFFEINE
Caffeine in the form of caffeinated shampoo has also been shown to increase hair growth.