Healthy hair is dependent upon blood circulation and quality, which in turn are dependent upon nutrition. Partial lack of any nutrient can cause hair problems. A well balanced diet is important to maintaining healthy hair, although hereditary graying and balding cannot be completely prevented by nutritional means.

Hair is composed primarily of protein. A deficiency of protein in diet can result in a temporary change of hair color and texture, resulting in dull, thin, dry hair. If the protein deficiency is corrected, the hair will return to its normal condition.

A deficiency of vitamin A may cause hair to become dull, dry and lusterless and eventually to fall out. However, an excess of vitamin A may cause similar problems.

Hair loss occurs during stress or when the diet is inadequate in the B vitamins, especially B6, biotin, inositol, and folic acid or in magnesium, sulfur, or zinc. An underactive thyroid causes the hair to fall out. Excess copper results in hair loss in women who take oral contraceptives and in women in the last months of pregnancy (hair growth will return after birth). Intoxication by heavy metals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium causes hair loss.

Graying hair can indicate a deficiency of nutrients in other parts of the body. A return of normal hair color has been accomplished by supplements of copper, folic acid, pantothenic acid and or PABA; 5 milligrams of folic acid, 300 milligrams of PABA and pantothemic acid along with the B complex have been shown to prevent the loss of hair and to restore hair color in some persons.

Good hygiene is also important for healthy hair. This includes brushing the hair properly and washing it with a mild shampoo. Exposure to wind and sun may cause brittle, broken hair.

The Nutrients for Good Hair

Vitamin A, Vitamin B complex, Vitamin B6, Biotin, Folic acid, Inositol, PABA, Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin C, Copper, Iodine, Magnesium, Sulfur, Zinc, and protein


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