Essential fatty acids and hair loss
Hair loss is an issue faced by both men and women. Although it appears to be more common in men that might be because women are more apt to use quality hair pieces to cover the problem or may have more options with hair inserts then do men. Research has found that there are several factors involved to keeping good hair health. One of those factors are essential fatty acids. These are polyunsaturated fatty acids that are necessary for good health and are received through dietary sources. They have unique properties that are necessary for the formation of health cells, development and functioning of the brain and nervous system and the production of substances that act like hormones that regulate different body systems. All in all essential fatty acids are just that – essential!
Essential fatty acids are also used in maintaining the integrity of the skin and the structure of cells membranes – important in the growth of healthy hair.
It might be our modern lifestyle to blame but there is an increasing deficiency of essential fatty acids in our diet, especially Omega 3 fatty acids. Research has shown that these Omega 3 acids will help to eliminate eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, helps to prevent hair loss by controlling the flow of oils and nourish collagen, the supporting structure beneath the skin.
Essential fatty acids are made up of two groups
Omega 6 fatty acids and Omega 3 fatty acids.
Omega 6 acids are found in plentiful supply in many oils – corn oil, safflower oil, soybean oil and sunflower oil, whole grains and walnuts. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fatty fish like salmon and in vegetable sources such as flax seeds, hemp seeds, walnuts and canola oil.
It appears that the Omega 3 fatty acids are most important in the growth of healthy hair. You can help to prevent further loss of hair and encourage hair re-growth by including dietary products with Omega 3 fatty acids. Try eating salmon, sardines, herring or mackerel two or three times a week. You can also use freshly ground flax seeds over salad or cereal. You can freshly grind flax seed by keeping them in the refrigerator and using a coffee grinder or blender to grind enough to last the week.
Using dietary sources there have been no toxicity reports in healthy people who use them. People who are suffering from epilepsy should be careful using supplements of seed oils because they can aggravate the problem. Fish oil supplements can also be difficult with people who are taking blood disorders or a problem with bleeding disorders. If you are interested in taking a fish oil supplement it should be discussed with your physician to be sure that it doesn’t interfere with other medications that you may already be taking.
Like all other supplements, vitamins and minerals essential fatty acids are absorbed best when there are sufficient amounts of other vitamins and minerals in the body. For the best absorption of essential fatty acids these would be vitamins B3, B6, C, E and biotin as well as zinc, magnesium and selenium.
Hair loss in both men and women is a challenge to the emotions and psyche of those suffering the effects. Armed with information about how to treat hair loss, more naturally men and women may be able to prevent further loss or even begin regrowth as well, as enjoy a body that is now healthier!
