The Importance of Vitamin D Getting enough nutrition, protein, calories, and vitamins are all important for hair health. Vitamin D, however, is so important and so often deficient in Americans that it belongs in a class by itself.
There is no doubt that a vitamin D deficiency can be a factor in hair loss, but it’s not clear whether supplementing it can help regrow hair. Nevertheless, getting enough vitamin D is a good preventative measure to help you keep the hair you have. And an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, as the saying goes.
Who is at risk for a vitamin D deficiency?
- Those who always have their skin covered or are veiled.
- Those living at very northern or very southern latitudes where there are few daylight hours in winter.
- Those who always wear a heavy sunscreen on exposed skin.
- People who are obese because vitamin D is fat soluble, and for those with a lot of body fat the vitamin can stay “locked in” their fat.
- Those who never consume vitamin D-fortified foods like milk.
- Anyone with an intestinal disease that prevents normal fat absorption.
What does vitamin D do in the body?
Vitamin D plays a role in calcium and phosphate absorption in the gut, in the regulation of metabolism and the immune system, in cell growth, and reduction of inflammation among other things. It may prevent certain cancers, diabetes, and may be beneficial for some mental health disorders. As far as your hair is concerned, vitamin D seems to stimulate follicle growth, and vitamin D receptors also somehow stimulate the follicles.
How much Vitamin D do I need?
This is the big question. Historically, the doses recommended were between 500-1000 IU/d depending on age. However, recently a mistake was discovered in the calculation of these doses, and the amount we need could actually be 10 times that amount. So, discuss this with your doctor. Remember, anyone, experiencing sudden or significant hair loss should see his or her family doctor. We would recommend blood work to see the levels of different hormones and whether you have any vitamin deficiencies. We are here for you when you’re ready to start treatment for hair loss. If you have any questions about treatment for hair loss or any of our products, we encourage you to call us directly at (844) 280-4680.