Thinning hair is something that so many women deal with. Hair loss is affected by genetic, environmental, as well as hormonal factors. About 40% of women have visible hair loss by age 40, so there is a large portion of the population that will experience this early in life. This phenomenon can have a myriad of causes, so it is always important to address nutritional factors as well as supplements, but taken consistently, supplements can make a big difference.
- Zinc – This vitamin is found in many immune boosting multivitamins but has great benefit for preventing further hair loss. Zinc deficiency has been found in a significant portion of both male and female hair loss patients. Zinc is an important cofactor in many processes of hair production and growth. It both inhibits hair follicle regression and accelerates follicle recovery.
- Biotin and B-5 (Pantothenic Acid) – These are the most commonly heard about vitamins for hair loss. When taking them for hair loss, make sure to take them separately. The biotin helps rebuild the hair itself while B-5 helps to support adrenal function that can be associated with hair loss. Some foods high in these vitamins include beef, eggs, avocado, chicken, and nuts.
- Iron – Iron deficiency can be associated with hair loss, but this is one that you should have tested before you start supplementing.
- Vitamin D is a super vitamin that is actually a hormone that has recently been found to be helpful in treating everything from cancer to energy loss. Because hair is very sensitive to hormonal fluctuations, making sure vitamin d levels are adequate is key to treating hair loss. This is another vitamin deficiency that is commonly tested, so ask your doctor at your next checkup to see if your vitamin d levels are what they should be. Also, spending as little as 10-15 minutes per day in the sun is enough to provide the body with enough exposure to absorb 10,000 IU. Seafood like mackerel, swordfish, and halibut are great sources of vitamin d.
- Rosemary Essential Oil – Applying rosemary oil to the scalp (mixed with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil) has been shown to help stimulate the scalp without the side effects of other topical treatments.
- Fish Oil – Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to stimulate hair growth, strengthen follicles, and reduce inflammation.
Some of our favorite supplements for hair loss include:
STEP(S) FOR THIS WEEK:
- Remember that any time you take supplements, brand is important. Because supplements are not FDA regulated, it is important to choose supplements that are manufactured by reputable companies. It can take 3-6 months of consistent supplementation to start to see noticeable results, so be consistent and patient.