hair supply - hair loss prevention

Better Nutrition, Nov, 2000 by Karyn Siegel-Maier

Propecia (made by Merck) is another treatment approved by the FDA that contains 1 mg of finasteride. Like minoxidil, finasteride also blocks release of the "bad enzyme" (5 ar), but also poses potential health risks. Women of childbearing age are excluded from using this medication since even handling the tablets can cause serious birth defects, as are those undergoing certain forms of HIV treatment. Finasteride is also used to treat prostate enlargement and works in the same way as minoxidil to treat hair loss. But, it only works as long as the medication is continued; any hair regrowth will fall out within 1 year of ceasing medication. Other side effects include loss of sex drive, erectile dysfunction and a decrease in the volume of ejaculate. For most guys, this is enough to make them look elsewhere.

NUTRITION AND YOUR HAIR

For one thing, good nutrition can go a long way in helping you keep your halo of hair. In fact, in Asian countries where vegetables are primary in the diet, pattern baldness is rarely seen. B vitamins in particular are crucial to healthy sebum production and new cell generation. Some minerals work synergistically with others to boost antioxidant activity and help block "bad" enzymes. Therefore, a balanced, varied diet of fresh, whole foods is important.

HAIR YE, HAIR YE!

Remember that hair loss can mean more than the fading of beauty and youth; it can also be a signal of a serious disease. Consult your healthcare practitioner at the first signs of thinning hair to discuss the best course of treatment for you. So you can restore, or keep, your "crowning glory."

Top 8 Hair Raising Supplements

Here's a sample of some of the best supplements to promote healthy hair:

L-LYSINE

An amino acid with a patent pending for hair growth. Rich sources include chicken, turkey, fish, legumes and most vegetables. In supplement form, up to 500 mg daily is believed to be safe, although it is not suitable for children or pregnant or nursing women.

L-ARGININE

Another amino acid that may stimulate hair growth by increasing absorption of nitric acid. Suggested dose is 1.5 g per day.

SAW PALMETTO

An herb that may reduce/slow hair loss. Recommended dosage is 320 mg/day.

GRAPE SEED EXTRACT

Contains proanthocyanidins that stimulate growth in hair epithelial cells. Suggested dosage is 150 to 300 mg per day.

GREEN TEA EXTRACT

Has antioxidants (catechins) that may hold back hair loss. Suggested dosage is 30 to 300 mg daily.

GLA

Gamma linolenic acid (GLA) -- a good fat -- also helps hold back the "Great Recession." Borage oil is one of the best sources. Suggested dosage is 100 to 500 mg daily.

SOY ISOFLAVONES

Antioxidant phytoestrogens in soy reduce hair loss. These can be found in soy foods such as tofu, tempeh, miso and soy milk. Suggested serving "dosage" is 25 g of soy protein per day.

STINGING NETTLE ROOT EXTRACT

Used for benign prostate hyperplasia, but also thought to help hair. Try taking 120 mg twice a day.

a full plate of food= a full head of hair

Several different factors can add up to hair loss. Some, like heredity or genetics, are impossible to change, but others like stress, poor diet and vitamin deficiencies, can be easily altered. First and foremost, healthy hair is dependent upon good blood circulation. Vitamins C and E and coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) can help improve scalp circulation (as will a daily scalp massage). You can find vitamin C in Brussels sprouts, cranberries, mango, broccoli and tomatoes. Wheat germ and egg yolks are both rich in vitamin E and CoQ10.