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Fortunately, hair is not essential to an individual’s physiological health, and the body is able to function normally without it. If the body experiences any nutritional deficiency, the first place that is cut off from receiving nutrients is the hair. Thus, if you are not consuming the correct amount of food and nutrients, you may experience hair loss.
Generally speaking, the level of nutrients required for hair growth can be met as long as a balanced diet is implemented. However, many people have issues achieving this due to strict or vegan diets. The lack of iron and protein is a common cause of hair loss, and iron in particular is an indispensable nutrient required for rapid hair growth. A lack of iron also increases the chances of developing anemia, which blocks transportation of nutrients through the bloodstream into the hair follicles of the scalp. If you want your hair to grow quickly, it is highly important to consume more iron, increasing blood supply to the scalp. Sources of iron include beef, pork, oysters, duck blood jelly, seaweed, sesame, celery, red beans, soybeans, and more. In addition, women are more likely to experience iron deficiency symptoms compared to men, so they should pay additional attention to iron levels. It is worth noting that while the consumption of vitamin C rich foods can help facilitate absorption of iron in the intestine.
Iodine is also an essential nutrient for hair growth. Without iodine, thyroid diseases such as hypothyroidism could be induced, and hair loss is often a symptom of thyroid disease. Additionally, iodine can help add shine, and make hair darker and stronger. Iodine-containing foods, such as kelp, shrimp, crab, and milk, are all recommended for hair health.
Foods that are rich in vitamin A, D, E, biotin, zinc, selenium and other minerals can also help in maintaining healthy hair. Studies have shown that vitamin E enhances hair follicle vitality and is able to make the hair stronger. It also inhibits any excessive secretion of scalp oil and prevents hair follicle blockages, facilitating an environment that is rich with nutrients. Foods that are rich in vitamin E include palm oil, canola oil, olive oil, peanuts, walnuts, and fish.
Lastly, stress and physical fatigue can cause endocrine disorders, pushing the hair growth cycle into the telogen phase or inducing alopecia. Therefore, in addition to eating a diet rich with the required nutrients, it is also necessary to practice a healthy, balanced lifestyle that will improve your immune system.
