If you are struggling with thinning hair or are trying to grow thicker hair, then you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will cover the most important vitamins and minerals you need to consume to grow thicker and healthier hair. Dr. Eric Berg DC, a renowned chiropractor and expert in natural health, has shared his insights into what you can do to achieve thicker, fuller hair.
Discover the Essential 7 Vitamins and Minerals Required for Healthier and Thicker Hair Growth
In his video "Grow THIN Hair into THICK Hair" Dr. Eric Berg DC shares some valuable tips on how to grow thick hair naturally. Let's dive into his expert advice.
1. Iron - A Vital Mineral for Thick Hair
The first thing Dr. Eric Berg DC recommends for thick hair is iron. Iron is a mineral that is involved in building up hemoglobin, which helps carry oxygen through your blood. Without hemoglobin in the scalp, the hair follicles do not receive the necessary oxygen to grow. Therefore, iron is crucial for hair growth.
If you're not a vegan, a little red meat a few times a week will give you plenty of iron. You can also get iron from eggs and cheese, as they are also rich sources of this mineral.
2. Zinc - The Key to Thick, Healthy Hair
Zinc is another essential mineral that Dr. Eric Berg DC recommends for thick, healthy hair. Zinc is involved in hundreds of different enzymes, especially those that are responsible for making proteins. As hair is primarily made up of protein, a zinc deficiency can lead to hair thinning and dryness.
Consuming a little red meat a few times a week can provide you with enough zinc. Shellfish, particularly oysters, are the best source of zinc. However, there are many different ways you can become deficient in zinc, including consuming a lot of alcohol or sugar.
3. Telogen Effluvium - Hair Shedding Caused by Stress
Telogen effluvium is a condition triggered by shock or stress that makes your hair fall out and become very thin and fragile. Stress can raise cortisol levels, which then increases the requirement of zinc. If you're already deficient in zinc, this can cause hair thinning and shedding.
Pregnancy, emotional stress, loss of a loved one, surgery, or over-exercising can cause telogen effluvium. Therefore, managing stress is essential to prevent hair thinning.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids - The Anti-Inflammatory Nutrient
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for hair growth, particularly thick hair. The typical American diet is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can cause a deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids, leading to hair thinning. Omega-3 fatty acids are also anti-inflammatory, making them helpful for people with alopecia.
To ensure you're getting enough omega-3 fatty acids, consume salmon or cod liver oil regularly.
5. Vitamin D - Stimulates Hair Growth
Vitamin D is another essential nutrient for hair growth. It directly stimulates the growth of hair and is crucial for the immune aspects of hair, including inflammation and autoimmunity. People with autoimmune conditions that cause hair loss require more vitamin D than others.
6. Selenium - Important for Thyroid Health and Reducing Inflammation
Selenium is essential for thyroid health and is involved in converting T4 to T3. A slow thyroid can hinder hair growth. Selenium is also important for reducing inflammation and counteracting alopecia and dandruff. One Brazil nut a day can provide enough selenium.
7. Biotin - Essential for Keratin Synthesis
Biotin is required for keratin synthesis, the protein that hair is made of, and the strength of hair. Antibiotics can cause thinning of the hair as they destroy the microbiome that produces biotin. Foods high in biotin include eggs, almonds, and sweet potatoes.
In conclusion, growing thick and healthy hair is not just about using the right shampoo or taking expensive supplements. It requires a holistic approach that includes a healthy diet, adequate intake of essential minerals and vitamins, and managing stress levels. Dr. Eric Berg DC has shared some valuable insights on how to promote hair growth naturally. By incorporating his tips on iron, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, selenium, and biotin into your daily routine, you can nourish your hair from the inside out. Remember, healthy hair reflects a healthy body, so make sure to take care of yourself to enjoy thick, shiny, and vibrant hair.