How to choose effective dietary supplements for hair growth? Complete leadership
Hair loss and slow growth are common problems affecting men and women of all ages. Many are looking for a solution in shampoos, masks and other hair care products, but often forget about the importance of nutrition from the inside. Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) can become an effective addition to a healthy lifestyle, providing the body with the necessary vitamins, minerals and other substances that stimulate hair growth and improve their condition. But how to choose a really effective dietary supplement among the huge variety of presented in the market? This leadership will provide you with all the necessary knowledge to make a conscious decision.
I. Understanding the causes of hair loss and slow growth
Before considering specific dietary supplements, it is important to understand the reasons underlying hair problems. This will allow you to choose additives aimed at eliminating specific deficits or problems.
- Genetics: Heredity plays a key role in predisposition to androgenic alopecia (baldness in the male or female type). In this case, dietary supplements can slow down the process, but not stop it completely.
- Hormonal imbalance: Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, thyroid diseases and other hormonal changes can affect hair growth.
- Nutrient deficiency: The lack of iron, zinc, biotin, vitamins of group B, vitamin D and other substances can lead to hair loss and slowing down their growth.
- Stress: Chronic stress can cause tickle alopecia — temporary hair loss.
- Diseases: Some diseases, such as autoimmune diseases, infections and dermatological problems, can cause hair loss.
- Medicines: Some drugs may have a side effect in the form of hair loss.
- Incorrect hair care: Excessive use of thermal tools, chemical curls, dyeing and tight hairstyles can damage the hair and lead to its loss.
- Inal meals: An unbalanced diet, poor in protein, vitamins and minerals, can negatively affect hair health.
II. Key ingredients in dietary supplements for hair growth
Certain vitamins, minerals and other nutrients play an important role in hair health. When choosing a dietary supplement, pay attention to the presence and dosage of the following ingredients:
- Biotin (Vitamin B7): One of the most famous vitamins for hair growth. Biotin is necessary for the synthesis of keratin — the main protein, of which the hair consists of. Biotin deficiency can lead to hair loss, fragility of nails and skin problems. Dosage: 2.5-5 mg per day.
- Vitamin D: He plays a role in stimulating hair follicles and can contribute to hair growth. Vitamin D deficiency is associated with hair loss, especially with focal alopecia. Dosage: 1000-5000 IU per day (preferably after a blood test for vitamin D levels).
- Iron: It is necessary to transport oxygen to hair follicles. Iron deficiency (iron deficiency anemia) is a common cause of hair loss, especially in women. Dosage: depends on the level of iron in the blood, prescribed by a doctor. It is important to take iron with vitamin C for better absorption.
- Zinc: Participates in the synthesis of protein necessary for hair growth and helps maintain the health of hair follicles. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, dry skin and slow healing of wounds. Dosage: 8-11 mg per day.
- Vitamin C: A powerful antioxidant that protects the hair follicles from damage to free radicals. Also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which gives the hair strength and elasticity. Dosage: 75-90 mg per day.
- B vitamins B: They play an important role in the metabolism of energy and the health of the nervous system. Vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid) and B12 (cobalamin) are necessary for healthy hair growth. It is optimal to take a complex of vitamins of group B.
- Vitamin E: Another powerful antioxidant that helps protect hair follicles from damage and improve blood circulation in the scalp. Dosage: 15 mg per day.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Ezmable fatty acids that help reduce inflammation in the scalp and improve the health of hair follicles. Contained in fish oil, linseed oil and other sources. Dosage: 1-3 grams per day.
- Amino acids: Building blocks of protein necessary for the growth and restoration of hair. Especially important are L-Lisin, L-cysteine, L-metionine.
- Silicon: Strengthens the hair and gives it shine. Contained in the needle, nettle and other plants.
- Collagen: The main structural protein of hair, skin and nails. Reception of collagen can improve the strength and elasticity of the hair.
III. How to choose dietary supplement: Practical tips
The choice of effective dietary supplement for hair growth is a responsible task. Follow these tips to make the right choice:
- Determine the cause of the problem: Before buying dietary supplements, try to determine the cause of hair or slow growth. Contact the doctor (trichologist or dermatologist) for diagnosis and exclusion of diseases. Blood tests can help identify a nutrient deficiency.
- Study the composition: Carefully study the composition of the dietary supplement. Make sure that it contains the necessary vitamins, minerals and other ingredients in sufficient dosage. Avoid dietary supplements with an excess of ingredients or with unknown components.
- Pay attention to the form of ingredients: Some forms of vitamins and minerals are better absorbed by the body than others. For example, chelat forms of minerals (for example, zinc Helat) have higher bioavailability. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) is better absorbed than vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol).
- Check the manufacturer’s reputation: Choose dietary supplements from well -known and respected manufacturers who adhere to quality standards and conduct clinical trials of their products. Avoid cheap and unverified brands.
- Read reviews: Study the reviews of other buyers about a particular diet. Pay attention to the reviews regarding the effectiveness, side effects and the general impression of the product. Remember that the reviews can be subjective, so do not rely only on them.
- Consider your features: When choosing a dietary supplement, take into account your individual needs, allergies and contraindications. If you have any diseases or you take medicines, consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements.
- Do not wait for instant results: Hair growth is a long process. Do not expect to see significant results immediately after the start of the dietary supplement. To achieve a noticeable effect, it is necessary to take dietary supplements regularly for several months.
- Combine dietary supplements with a healthy lifestyle: Bades are not a magic tablet. To achieve optimal results, it is necessary to combine the intake of dietary supplements with a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, regular physical exercises and stress management.
- Be careful with «miracle tools»: Avoid dietary supplements who promise instant and incredible hair growth. Often such products contain unproven or even harmful ingredients. Trust only verified and scientifically justified means.
- Remember the possible side effects: Like any other additives, dietary supplements can cause side effects, such as stomach disorder, allergic reactions and interaction with drugs. If you notice any side effects, stop taking a dietary supplement and consult a doctor.
- Pay attention to certification: Look for dietary supplements that have been certified by independent organizations such as NSF International, USP Verified or Informed-Choice. This guarantees that the product meets the stated quality and safety standards.
- Check the expiration date: Make sure that dietary supplements have not expired. Expensible supplements can be less effective or even dangerous.
- Keep the dietary supplement correctly: Keep dietary supplements in accordance with the instructions on the package, in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture.
- Do not exceed the recommended dosage: Exceeding the recommended dosage of dietary supplements can be harmful to health. Follow the instructions on the packaging or recommendations of the doctor.
- Consider complex products: Some dietary supplements contain a combination of several ingredients specially designed to maintain hair health. Such complex products can be more convenient and effective than taking individual additives.
IV. Alternative options and synergy
Do not rely only on dietary supplements. Consider the following alternative and additional options to stimulate hair growth:
- Balanced nutrition: The basis of healthy hair is a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Include meat, fish, eggs, dairy products, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds in your diet.
- Correct hair care: Use soft shampoos and air conditioners, avoid frequent use of thermal tools, chemical curls and staining. Regularly do scalp massage to improve blood circulation.
- Minoxidil: This is a drug approved by FDA for the treatment of androgenic alopecia. Minoxidil is applied to the scalp and stimulates hair growth. Before using minoxidil, you need to consult a doctor.
- Finasters: This is another drug that is used to treat androgenic alopecia in men. Finasteride blocks the effect of the hormone dihydrotestosterone (DGT), which is the main cause of baldness by male type. Finasteride can cause side effects, so it should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor.
- PRP therapy (Platelet-Rich Plasma): This is a procedure in which the patient is taken from blood, it is treated to obtain plasma, rich in platelets, and insert it into the scalp. Platelets contain growth factors that stimulate hair growth.
- Hair transplant: This is a surgical procedure in which the hair is transplanted from the sections of the head, where they grow well (for example, from the back of the head), to the areas where they fall out.
V. Examples of dietary supplements and their ingredients (only for familiarization, is not an advertisement and does not replace a consultation with a doctor):
The examples below serve only for illustration and are not a recommendation for use. Always consult a doctor before taking any dietary supplements. Dosages and composition may differ depending on the manufacturer.
- Example 1: Bad for strengthening and hair growth (complex):
- Biotin: 5 mg
- Vitamin D3: 2000 ME
- Iron (Helat): 15 mg
- Zinc (Helat): 10 mg
- Vitamin C: 100 mg
- Collagen: 500 mg
- Horsetail extract: 100 mg
- Example 2: Bad with an accent for B vitamins:
- Vitamin B1: 5 mg
- Vitamin B2: 5 mg
- Vitamin B3: 20 mg
- Vitamin B5: 10 mg
- Vitamin B6: 5 mg
- Folic acid: 400 μg
- Vitamin B12: 100 μg
- Biotin: 2.5 mg
- Example 3: dietary supplement with omega-3 content:
- Fish oil: 1000 mg (EPA: 180 mg, dha: 120 mg)
- Vitamin E: 10 mg
- Biotin: 2.5 mg
- Zinc: 7 mg
VI. Common mistakes when choosing dietary supplements:
- Support only on advertising: Advertising often exaggerates the effectiveness of dietary supplements and hides potential side effects. Do not trust blindly advertising, but conduct your own research.
- Ignoring the composition: Some buyers do not read the composition of dietary supplements and buy it only by name or on the recommendation of acquaintances. Always carefully study the composition to make sure that it meets your needs.
- Neglecting consultation with a doctor: Before taking a dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take medications. The doctor can help you choose the most suitable dietary supplement and avoid possible side effects.
- Waiting for instant results: Do not expect dietary supplements to act instantly. To achieve a noticeable effect, it is necessary to take dietary supplements regularly for several months. If you do not see the results for several months, consult your doctor.
- Dosage exceeding: Exceeding the recommended dosage of dietary supplements can be harmful to health. Always follow the instructions on the packaging or recommendations of the doctor.
- Buying for fakes: Unfortunately, there are many fake dietary supplements on the market that can be hazardous to health. Buy dietary supplements only in trusted pharmacies or stores.
VII. Prospects and research in the field of hair dietary
Studies in the field of hair dietary supplements continue, and scientists are looking for new and effective ingredients and combinations to stimulate hair growth and improve their condition. In particular, the possibilities of using plant extracts, peptides and probiotics are studied. The future behind a personalized approach to the choice of dietary supplements based on genetic tests and blood tests in order to accurately determine the deficiency of nutrients and choose the most suitable additives for each person. Clinical trials of new dietary supplements are carried out to confirm their effectiveness and safety. It is expected that in the future there will be more effective and safe dietary supplements for hair growth based on the latest scientific achievements.
VIII. Conclusion (absent according to the assignment)