What is hair loss?
Hair loss is a condition in which more hair falls out than grows each day. Hair loss can occur at any age. Most people lose up to 100 hairs a day. This is part of the hair growth cycle, where new hair grows and replaces the hairs that have fallen out. When more than 100 hairs fall out and do not grow back, the condition is called alopecia.
Do vitamin deficiencies cause hair loss?
According to research published in the journal Dermatology And Therapy, vitamins and minerals play an important role in the normal development of hair follicles, and deficiencies in the above nutrients can lead to hair loss.
Thiamine (vitamin B1)
Thiamine, also known as vitamin B1, is important for the metabolism of cells in hair follicles. This vitamin helps enhance the metabolism of carbohydrates to create energy. Thiamine deficiency can lead to weak hair, making it difficult to produce new hair.
Vitamin B2
Vitamin B2 is essential for building energy for healthy tissues, supporting iron metabolism to help provide enough oxygen to the scalp and hair roots for healthy hair.
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5 participates in the synthesis of coenzyme A, which is necessary in the metabolism of fatty acids, helping to improve the elasticity, strength of hair fibers and the nourishment of hair follicles.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is essential for neurotransmitters that regulate hair growth and protein breakdown. It also aids in regulating hormones, especially those related to hair. A deficiency of vitamin B6 can lead to weak hair and increased hair loss.
Vitamin B7
The synthesis of keratin, a protein that gives hair its shape and growth, depends on vitamin B7 or biotin. It acts as a coenzyme for the metabolism of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids in the body, processes involved in energy production and maintaining healthy hair follicles. Biotin deficiency can lead to disruptions in keratin production, which can cause hair loss or brittle, thinning hair.
