Hair growth and dietary supplement: myth or reality
I. Introduction: debunking myths about hair growth and dietary supplements
The desire to have thick, brilliant and healthy hair is one of the fundamental components of human self -esteem. Hair plays a significant role in the formation of image, expression of individuality and a sense of attractiveness. It is not surprising that hair loss, their thinning or slow growth cause anxiety and encourage people to look for effective solutions. The market for hair growth is full of promises: from miraculous shampoos to innovative laser technologies. Among all this variety, biologically active additives (dietary supplements) occupy a special place. They are positioned as a safe and affordable way to improve the condition of the hair from the inside, providing the body with the necessary nutrients to stimulate the growth and strengthen of hair follicles.
However, the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth is a question surrounded by many contradictions and myths. Some people argue that thanks to the dietary supplements, their hair has become noticeably thicker and stronger, while others do not see any results. This ambiguity is due to several factors: individual characteristics of the body, differences in the composition and quality of dietary supplements, as well as the lack of strict scientific evidence confirming the effectiveness of many of them.
The purpose of this article is to carefully study the question of the effect of dietary supplements on hair growth, debunking common myths and provide scientifically sound information that will help you make a conscious decision on the advisability of using these tools. We will consider the main nutrients necessary for the health of the hair, the mechanism of their action, as well as the results of scientific research on the effectiveness of various dietary supplements. In addition, we will discuss potential risks and side effects associated with the use of dietary supplements, and give recommendations for choosing safe and high -quality products.
II. Hair growth biology: Fundamentals that need to know
To understand how dietary supplements can affect hair growth, you must have an idea of the fundamental principles of the biology of this process. Hair is a complex structure, consisting mainly of keratin protein. It grows from a hair follicle located in the scalp. The life cycle of the hair consists of three main phases:
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Anagen (growth phase): This is the longest phase that can last from 2 to 7 years. During this phase, the cells of the hair follicle are actively divided, forming a new hair, which gradually pushes the old one. The length of the hair that grows over this period depends on genetic factors and can vary from person to person.
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Katagen (transition phase): This phase lasts only a few weeks. During this time, hair growth ceases, the hair follicle is reduced and the hair is separated from the power source.
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Telogen (Phase Salm): This phase lasts about 3 months. The hair remains in the follicle, but does not grow. At the end of this phase, the old hair falls out, and a new growth cycle from the anagen phase begins.
Normally, about 85-90% of the hair on the head are in the anagen phase, 1-2% in the catagen phase, and 10-15% in the heterogene phase. Violation of this balance, for example, a reduction in the anagen phase or an increase in the heterogene phase, can lead to hair loss or a slowdown in their growth.
Various factors influence hair growth, including:
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Genetics: A genetic predisposition plays a key role in determining the structure, color, thickness and growth rate of hair. Some people are genetically predisposed to faster hair growth, while others are more slow.
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Hormones: Hormonal balance has a significant effect on hair growth. For example, dihydrotestosterone (DGT), a derivative of testosterone, can cause a reduction in hair follicles and lead to hair loss, especially in men with a genetic predisposition to baldness. Thyroid hormones also play an important role in the regulation of hair growth.
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Nutrition: Adequate nutrition is crucial for the health of the hair. The lack of certain nutrients, such as protein, iron, zinc, biotin and vitamins, can adversely affect the growth and structure of the hair.
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Age: With age, the hair growth rate slows down, the hair becomes thinner and more prone to loss. This is due to age -related changes in the hormonal background, a decrease in blood circulation in the scalp and a decrease in the number of hair follicles.
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Stress: Chronic stress can negatively affect hair growth, causing hair loss or slowing down their growth. Stress can disrupt the hormonal balance, weaken the immune system and worsen blood circulation in the scalp.
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Diseases and medicines: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, infections and thyroid diseases, can cause hair loss. In addition, some drugs, such as chemotherapeutic drugs, antidepressants and drugs for treating blood pressure, can have a side effect in the form of hair loss.
Understanding these basic principles of hair growth biology is necessary to assess the potential efficiency of dietary supplements and other hair growth products.
III. Nutrients necessary for healthy hair
As already mentioned, adequate nutrition plays a decisive role in maintaining health and hair growth. Certain nutrients are especially important for ensuring the optimal function of hair follicles and maintaining hair structure. These include:
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Protein: Hair consists mainly of keratin, protein. The lack of protein in the diet can lead to a slowdown in hair growth, their thinning and loss. It is recommended to consume enough protein from various sources, such as meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes and nuts.
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Iron: Iron is necessary for transferring oxygen to cells, including cells of hair follicles. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which, in turn, can cause hair loss. Play sources are red meat, liver, spinach, legumes and enriched cereals. It is important to note that iron from plant sources is absorbed worse than iron from animal sources. To improve the absorption of iron from plant sources, it is recommended to use them along with products rich in vitamin C.
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Zinc: Zinc is involved in many biochemical processes in the body, including protein synthesis and cell division. He also plays an important role in maintaining the health of hair follicles. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, their thinning and deceleration of growth. Sources of zinc are seafood, meat, nuts, seeds and legumes.
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Biotin (Vitamin B7): Biotin is necessary for the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. It also plays an important role in maintaining the health of the skin, hair and nails. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss, their thinning and brittleness. Biotin is found in small quantities in many products, such as eggs, liver, nuts, seeds and vegetables. It is important to note that the Biotin deficiency is relatively rare, since it is synthesized by bacteria in the intestines.
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Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays an important role in the regulation of hair growth. Studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency can be associated with hair loss. Vitamin D is synthesized in the skin under the influence of sunlight. It is also contained in some products such as oily fish, egg yolks and enriched dairy products.
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Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is an important component of hair structure. Sources of vitamin C are fruits and vegetables, such as citrus fruits, kiwi, strawberries, pepper and broccoli.
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Vitamin E: Vitamin E is another antioxidant that protects the cells from damage by free radicals. It also improves blood circulation in the scalp, which promotes hair growth. Vitamin E is found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables.
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Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the health of the skin and hair. They help reduce inflammation, improve blood circulation in the scalp and strengthen hair follicles. The sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fatty fish, linen seeds, walnuts and chia seeds.
The disadvantage of any of these nutrients can negatively affect the growth and structure of the hair. However, it is important to note that the excess of some nutrients, such as vitamin A and selenium, can also lead to hair loss. Therefore, it is important to observe moderation and not exceed the recommended doses.
IV. Bad for hair growth: what is science say?
The market presents a huge number of dietary supplements that promise to improve hair growth. Many of them contain combinations of the aforementioned nutrients, as well as other ingredients, such as plant extracts and amino acids. However, it is important to remember that not all dietary supplements are equally effective and safe. Before you start taking any dietary supplement for hair growth, you need to carefully study the composition of the product, get acquainted with the results of scientific research and consult a doctor.
Here are some of the most common ingredients used in dietary supplements for hair growth, and the results of scientific research on their effectiveness:
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Biotin: Biotin is one of the most popular ingredients in dietary supplements for hair growth. However, scientific data on its effectiveness are contradictory. While some studies have shown that taking biotin can improve hair growth in people with biotin deficiency, other studies have not revealed any significant changes in people with a normal level of biotin. Biotin deficiency is relatively rare, so taking biotin in large doses can be ineffective if you have no shortage.
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Collagen: Collagen is the main structural protein contained in the skin, hair and nails. Some studies have shown that the intake of collagen can improve skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles and strengthen nails. However, data on the effect of collagen on hair growth is not enough. Further research is needed to confirm or refute the effectiveness of collagen for hair growth.
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Keratin: Keratin is the main protein of which the hair consists of. Some dietary supplements contain hydrolyzed keratin, which is allegedly easier to absorb by the body. However, scientific data on keratin effectiveness in dietary supplements for hair growth are limited. Most studies were conducted in a test tube or on animals, and their results can not always be extrapolate on people.
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Saw Palmetto (Cerenia palm fruit extract): Saw Palmetto is often used in dietary supplements for the treatment of hair loss in men associated with dihydrotestosterone (DGT). Some studies have shown that Saw Palmetto can block the action of DGT and reduce hair loss. However, the results of these studies are not always unambiguous, and additional studies are needed to confirm the effectiveness of Saw Palmetto.
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Melatonin: Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Some studies have shown that the local use of melatonin can stimulate hair growth. However, data on the effect of taking melatonin inside on hair growth is not enough.
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Amino acids: Some amino acids, such as L-cysteine and L-Lisin, are important components of keratin. Some dietary supplements contain these amino acids to provide the body with building blocks for keratin synthesis. However, scientific data on the effectiveness of amino acids in dietary supplements for hair growth are not enough.
It is important to note that many dietary supplements for hair growth contain combinations of various ingredients. In such cases, it is difficult to determine which ingredient is responsible for the observed effect. In addition, the quality of dietary supplements can vary depending on the manufacturer. Some dietary supplements may contain insufficient ingredients to have any effect, while others may contain impurities or pollutants.
In general, scientific data on the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth remain ambiguous. Some studies have shown that taking certain dietary supplements can improve hair growth in people with a deficiency of certain nutrients, while other studies have not revealed any significant changes. Further research is needed to confirm or refute the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth and determine the optimal doses and combinations of ingredients.
V. The risks and side effects of dietary supplements
Before you start taking any dietary supplement, it is important to remember potential risks and side effects. Although dietary supplements are often positioned as safe and natural, they can cause undesirable reactions in some people.
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Interaction with drugs: Some dietary supplements can interact with the medicines that you take. For example, dietary supplements containing vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants. It is important to inform your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you accept in order to avoid potential interactions.
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Side effects: Some dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, nausea, diarrhea, headache and allergic reactions. If you notice any side effects after the start of taking Bad, immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor.
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Overdose: Some dietary supplements contain high doses of vitamins and minerals that can be dangerous to health. An overdose of vitamins and minerals can lead to serious side effects, such as damage to the liver, kidneys and nervous system. It is important to observe the recommended doses indicated on the product label, and not exceed them.
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Pollution: Some dietary supplements can be contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides or other harmful substances. Pollution can occur at different stages of production, from collecting raw materials to packaging the product. It is important to choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers who test their products for safety and cleanliness.
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False statements: Many dietary supplements make false statements about their products. They may argue that their dietary supplements cure diseases, prevent aging or improve physical shape. It is important to critically evaluate the information presented on the labels of products and in advertising materials, and not to trust too good in order to be true to promises.
The management of the quality of food and drugs of the USA (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements as strictly as drugs. This means that dietary supplement manufacturers are not required to prove the efficiency or safety of their products before releasing it to the market. Therefore, it is important to conduct your own research and carefully evaluate the information before starting to take any dietary supplement.
VI. How to choose safe and high -quality dietary supplement for hair growth
Given the potential risks and side effects of dietary supplements, it is important to know how to choose a safe and high -quality product. Here are some tips:
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Consult a doctor: Before you start taking any dietary supplement, especially if you have any diseases or you take medicines, consult your doctor. The doctor can evaluate your nutrient needs and recommend a suitable dietary supplement, as well as check if you have contraindications for its use.
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Choose dietary supplements from trusted manufacturers: Look for dietary supplements from manufacturers who have a good reputation and test their products for safety and cleanliness. You can check the reputation of the manufacturer on the Internet or find out from your doctor or pharmacist, which brands they recommend.
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Read the product label: Carefully read the product label to find out the composition, dosage and contraindications. Make sure you understand all the ingredients and that they are safe for you. Pay attention to warnings and warnings.
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Look for quality certificates: Some dietary supplements have quality certificates from independent organizations, such as NSF International, USP or Consumerlab.com. These certificates confirm that the product was tested for safety, cleanliness and efficiency.
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Do not trust too good to be true to promises: Be skeptical to dietary supplements who promise wonderful results. If the dietary supplement promises to cure diseases or prevent aging, it is most likely a lie.
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Start with small doses: If you decide to try a dietary supplement for hair growth, start with a small dose and gradually increase it to the recommended dose. This will help you check if you have side effects.
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Follow your condition: Carefully follow your condition after the start of the dietary supplement. If you notice any side effects, immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor.
VII. Badam alternatives to improve hair growth
Bades are not the only way to improve hair growth. There are other alternative approaches that can be more effective and safe.
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Balanced nutrition: As already mentioned, adequate nutrition is crucial for the health of the hair. Make sure that you get enough protein, iron, zinc, biotin, vitamins and other nutrients from your diet. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grain products, low -fat protein sources and healthy fats in your diet.
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Hair care: Proper hair care can help prevent their damage and loss. Use soft shampoo and air conditioning, avoid frequent use of a hairdryer, curling iron and ironing, do not pull your hair with elastic bands and hairpins, and regularly cut the ends of the hair.
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Scalp massage: Scalp massage can improve blood circulation in hair follicles and stimulate hair growth. You can do scalp massage yourself or contact a professional masseur.
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Disease treatment: If hair loss is caused by a disease such as an autoimmune disease or thyroid disease, the underlying disease is necessary. After the disease is under control, hair growth can be restored.
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Medication: There are drugs that can stimulate hair growth. Rogaine is a local drug that can help slow down hair loss and stimulate the growth of new hair. Finsterida (Propecia) is an oral drug that can block the effect of DGT and reduce hair loss in men. These drugs should be used only as prescribed by a doctor.
VIII. Conclusion: D FAA for hair growth – a solution or a deception?
The question of the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth remains open. Although some studies have shown that taking certain dietary supplements can improve hair growth in people with a deficiency of certain nutrients, other studies have not revealed any significant changes. Further research is needed to confirm or refute the effectiveness of dietary supplements for hair growth and determine the optimal doses and combinations of ingredients.
Before you start taking any dietary supplement for hair growth, it is important to carefully study the composition of the product, get acquainted with the results of scientific research and consult a doctor. It is important to remember the potential risks and side effects of dietary supplements and choose safe and high -quality products from trusted manufacturers.
Bades are not the only way to improve hair growth. Balanced diet, proper hair care, scalp massage, treatment of diseases and drug treatment – all these are alternative approaches that can be more effective and safe.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to make or not make dietary supplements for hair growth depends on you. Thoroughly weigh the pros and cons, and make a conscious solution based on your individual needs and circumstances.