In order for our bodies to function healthily on a daily basis we need to have an adequate supply of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in our diet and our hair is no different. What we eat can influence the state of our hair and the rate at which our hair grows. Hair follicles consume a high number of nutrients and if the diet is deficient in these nutrients then the result will be unhealthy looking hair, slower hair growth, thinning of the hair and hair loss.

An important point to remember is that the rate at which your hair can grow is finite and what is normal hair growth for one person can be different for another. However, on average, hair grows at a rate of about a centimetre a month. The trick to faster hair growth is to maximise your own hair growth potential by making sure your hair and scalp has everything it needs to help it to grow. There is no overnight fix either, it takes time and effort and several months before any changes are noticeable.

There are several vitamins that are particularly beneficial for the hair and which can facilitate faster, healthier hair growth and these are in particular the B Complex Vitamins, and Vitamins A, C and E. The B complex vitamins and vitamin C are water soluble, which means they are not stored in the body and therefore have to be consumed every day. Vitamins A and E on the other hand are fat soluble, are stored by the body, and as such, do not need to be taken daily.

B Complex Vitamins

Vitamin B complex vitamins are best taken at the same time as they work together and the combined properties of the Vitamin B group, which include Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Vitamin B12, folic acid and the lesser known PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid), can help to promote healthy skin and scalp and facilitate healthy hair growth as well as inhibit greying of the hair and hair loss. Vitamin B vitamins can be found in meat, fish, vegetables, eggs, wholegrain cereals and legumes and of course, Vitamin B Complex supplements.

Biotin

Biotin, sometimes known as Vitamin H, is also part of the Vitamin B complex group of vitamins but deserves a special mention as it is particularly beneficial for the condition of the hair and scalp and consequently is a popular ingredient in shampoos and conditioners. It helps to produce Keratin and some studies have shown that Biotin in a natural form (as well as folic acid, PABA and vitamin B5) can help restore hair to its natural colour. Biotin can be found in brewer's yeast, nuts, cheese, meat and fish.

Inositol

Again, Inositol is part of the vitamin B complex group of vitamins and is believed to promote healthy hair growth and healthy hair follicles as well as prevent hair loss. It can be found in brewers yeast, cereals, nuts, rice, meat, vegetables and bananas

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is an antioxidant and helps to promote a healthy scalp, which in turn facilitates hair growth. An important point to note is that in too high quantities, vitamin A can be toxic and can be particularly harmful if taken during pregnancy. Vitamin A can be found in liver and fish liver oil as well as in dairy produce and some vegetables.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant and a detoxifier that helps to keep hair and the scalp healthy and is found mostly in citrus fruits and fresh vegetables

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that encourages good blood flow to the scalp. Again, high levels can be harmful. It can also raise blood pressure and affect the blood's ability to clot so should not be taken as a supplement without seeking advice from a doctor first. It can be found in vegetable oils, seeds, beans and nuts and in dark green leafy vegetables.

Conclusion

Vitamins are very powerful and too much can be just as harmful to the body as too little so before taking vitamin supplements, it is wise to discuss the option with your doctor first to eliminate any potential health problems that might arise.

Ideally, the most effective way of obtaining all the vitamins and nutrients you need to encourage faster hair growth and a healthy head of hair as well as promote good health in general, is to obtain them naturally through the diet itself.