Nutrition and hair
July 2010
in “Clinics in Dermatology”
TLDR Certain groups may need vitamin supplements to improve hair health and prevent other health problems.
The 2010 document outlines the relationship between nutrition and hair health, indicating that while most individuals receive sufficient nutrients from their diet, specific groups such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses or malnutrition may experience hair issues due to nutritional deficiencies. It details how deficiencies in protein-energy, zinc, essential fatty acids, selenium, vitamin A, and biotin can lead to hair brittleness, alopecia, and color changes. The paper also notes that biotin supplementation for hair loss lacks strong clinical evidence. It mentions that up to 85% of institutionalized elderly may be undernourished, leading to hair abnormalities, and that vitamin C deficiency can cause significant hair issues, with hair regrowth occurring after supplementation. The document also discusses the impact of malabsorption syndromes, bariatric surgery, eating disorders, and iron deficiency on hair health, with the latter showing conflicting study results. It warns against hypervitaminosis, particularly from vitamin A, which can cause hair loss and other health problems, citing a case of a patient requiring a liver transplant due to chronic vitamin A toxicity. The conclusion emphasizes the importance of recognizing individuals who may benefit from vitamin supplementation to support hair growth and prevent systemic health issues.
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