Vitamin B6 for hair: all its benefits
The well-being of our hair does not depend only on the use of a specific shampoo or the right products, but derives from several factors, one of which is nutrition. Many studies have shown that following a balanced diet that includes various nutrients is essential for our body to be healthy both internally and externally. Of the substances that are particularly beneficial for our hair are vitamins, especially those of group B. Today we will see in detail the properties and benefits of vitamin B6 on hair, also discovering through which foods it is possible to take it naturally.
The importance of vitamins
Vitamins are essential micronutrients for the health of the organism. However, it is not our body that synthesizes them, that is, it is not responsible for their production, and, therefore, we must introduce them through food and proper nutrition. Follow a balanced diet and balanced that includes all foods and their nutritional principles is important for our well-being, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle while paying attention to the effects of stress.
In particular, vitamins play a central role in all of this. Depending on the type and the group they belong to, they allow us to increase the immune defenses, to improve cognitive abilities, such as memory and concentration, and also to keep skin, nails and hair healthy. Specifically for the hair, these molecules have effective protective properties against the follicles, which help to strengthen their metabolism, stimulating cell production responsible for hair growth. For this reason, a lack of vitamins is also visible from the outside and, normally, supplements are recommended to bring their value back to the right level.
The benefits of vitamin B6 for the hair
There are 8 vitamins of group B and among these the vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine, stands out for its importance. In general, the B vitamins are essential for the body because they promote the health of the nervous system, eyes, hair and skin. Within this vitamin group, pyridoxine performs various functions and brings various benefits. For example, it participates in the formation of red blood cells and in the synthesis of serotonin and norepinephrine, two indispensable neurotransmitters for the brain.
Regarding the external well-being of our body, vitamin B6 is famous precisely because it promotes the health of hair and skin. First of all, it strengthens the structure of the hair and makes it brighter, then it prevents scalp disorders, such as dandruff and excessive sebum production that makes the hair greasy. According to the most recent studies, it is also useful for relieving alopecia, since it blocks the production of the enzyme that triggers a mechanism of hair growth difficulties, which turns out to have a much shorter life cycle and be more prone to hair growth. fall.
How to take vitamin B6
As we have already mentioned, all vitamins can be introduced through food or with a supplement. There are supplements that include more than one and others that, instead, contain only one vitamin. However, the best way remains that of taking the vitamins thanks to a varied and balanced diet. Vitamin B6 is found in many foods, ranging from meat to particular types of vegetables. Let's see the main ones:
- Wheat germ
- Red meat
- Milk
- Fish, especially the blue one
- Egg
- Peas
- Asparagus
- Avocado
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Peppers
- Brewer's yeast
Vitamin B6 Deficiency Symptoms
When micronutrient levels are not correct, our body immediately sends us signals. A vitamin B6 deficiency shows itself with very specific symptoms, including:
- Exhaustion and fatigue
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Water retention
- Chapped skin and lips
- Hair thinning and loss
In the event of one or more of these symptoms, we always recommend that you consult a specialist who knows how to provide adequate treatment, perhaps through a specific supplement that restores the action and functions of vitamin B6.
The other B vitamins beneficial for hair
Vitamin B6 is certainly important for our hair, but, in general, all B vitamins contribute significantly to hair health. Let's find out in summary the various benefits:
- Vitamin B1: promotes a regular hair life cycle. It is mainly present in legumes.
- Vitamin B2: increases the synthesis of sebum. It can be found in milk and many green vegetables.
- Vitamin B3: it is particularly beneficial for the health of the scalp because it improves its circulation. It is present in eggs, dairy products, celery and beets.
- Vitamin B5: promotes hair growth, slows down the process that makes them turn white and fights dandruff. It is especially present in egg yolk and broccoli.
- Biotin or vitamin B7: together with B6, biotin is among the most important of all B vitamins as regards the well-being of the hair. It contributes to the metabolism and to the formation of amino acids that make up the keratin protein. In addition, the growth of hair strengthens it and counteracts its fall. It can be found in foods that contain brewer's yeast, brown rice, bananas, strawberries and tomatoes.
- Folic acid or vitamin B9: in general, folic acid is essential for the body thanks to its various functions. It promotes cell regeneration and intervenes in the synthesis of proteins, including the keratin that makes up the hair. We find folic acid in green leafy vegetables, legumes, asparagus, citrus fruits, avocado and wholemeal flours.
- Vitamin B12: also called cobalamin, this vitamin provides nourishment to all the cells of the body and stimulates the renewal of the capillary. It thus makes the hair stronger and preserves its original color. It can be found in fermented foods, algae, quinoa, fruits, vegetables, tuna, soy and dairy products.
In addition to the B vitamins, vitamin C also plays a particularly effective action for the well-being of the hair. It is one of the most effective antioxidant agents because it can counteract the formation of free radicals and fights the signs of stress and aging on the skin. At the level of the hair, it acts on the cell turnover of the scalp and thus promotes hair growth.
