Healthy shiny hair is very appealing and is very much a reflection of inner health and adequate nutrient intake.
There are many problems which affect the hair and scalp, most commonly dry, brittle, or thinning hair and dry, flaky scalp. It is quite normal to lose some hair daily and the longer and darker the hair the more noticeable this is. If hair loss is excessive it might be wise to have thyroid levels checked by a GP. Irish people are the most prone in Europe to underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism ) because our water is fluoridated.
In February 2015, British scientists reported that fluoridated water is associated with elevated levels of hypothyroidism. In the 1950s fluoride was prescribed in Europe and South America for ‘overactive’ thyroid. According to clinical research, the dose of fluoride capable of reducing thyroid function was just 5mg per day, well within the range of what Irish people consume daily. Other symptoms of low thyroid activity include extreme tiredness and weight gain.
The nutrients involved in promoting healthy hair are very much the same as those that benefit the skin and nails too. It is important to eat a varied diet which contains the B group of vitamins, biotin, zinc, silica, and vitamin C. B vitamins are destroyed by sprays like pesticides, so buy organic vegetables where possible. During cooking, B vitamins leach into the cooking water as they are water soluble so try to use the water for gravy or soup for most benefit.
Adequate protein intake is essential also for thick, healthy hair. For dry skin or hair, supplementing with a good quality omega oil can make all the difference. Biotin is part of the B vitamin family and is also known as Vitamin B7. It is contained in many hair supplements nowadays as a deficiency has been shown to cause ‘seborrheic dermatitis’.
Nature’s Plus ‘Ultra Hair’ supplement contains 2,000mcg of biotin and 500mg of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5 ), which is the main anti-stress vitamin. It has a well-balanced B complex along with zinc and paba. It can be taken alongside silica, which promotes hair thickness and growth. Biotin is also available in shampoo from Aubrey and, apart from its benefit for hair, it is chemical free for those with irritated scalps.
For further information contact Susan in Au Naturel, Irishtown, Athlone on (090 ) 6487993.
