Genetics isn’t the only cause of alopecia (hair loss). Factors such as stress, medication, health problems, and diet can contribute to hair thinning. In our last blog, we discussed several nutrient deficiencies that cause hair loss. Today, we’re talking about nutrients that stimulate healthy hair growth.
1. Fatty Acids
Fatty acids promote healthy hair growth, hydrate your hair, and protect you from diseases. Unfortunately, your body cannot produce fatty acids, so it’s important to include them in your diet. Foods packed with these essential nutrients include:
- Salmon
- Sardines
- Mackerel
- Walnuts
- Flax seeds
- Avocado
2. B Vitamins
B vitamins, especially biotin and vitamin B5, prevent thinning and hair loss. They also stimulate hair growth and fingernail growth. Some foods full of B vitamins are:
- Greek yogurt
- Eggs
- Nuts
- Brown rice
- Oats
3. Iron
Iron is essential not only for healthy hair growth, but also for your overall health. To increase your body’s ability to absorb iron, eat foods rich in vitamin C along with iron-rich foods. The following foods contain lots of iron:
- Fortified cereals, grains, and pastas
- Soybeans
- Lentils
- Shellfish
- Beef
- Dark, leafy greens
- Leeks
- Cashews
- Dried fruit
- Figs
- Berries
4. Vitamin C
healthy hairIn addition to boosting your body’s iron absorption, vitamin C increases collagen production. This grows and strengthens the hair with the added benefit of preventing wrinkles. Eat these foods to get plenty of vitamin C:
- Citrus fruits
- Strawberries
- Red peppers
- Guava
5. Zinc
Like iron, zinc promotes healthy hair growth. In fact, too little zinc in your diet can cause hair loss. Make sure you are eating these foods:
- Pumpkin seeds
- Oysters
- Brazil nuts
- Eggs
- Pecans
- Beef
- Crab
- Lobster
- Fortified cereal
If you are concerned about hair loss or thinning, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gray at Hair Transplant & Restoration Center. HT&RC offers several surgical and non-surgical methods that restore thickness and hair growth.
