Salmon Oil and Hair Growth
- To stay healthy, hair needs a diet rich in essential fatty acids such as omega-3 fatty acids, as well as protein, iron, zinc and Vitamin A, according to WebMD. Severe enough nutritional deficiencies can result in hair falling out. Each hair grows about one centimeter a month during the two-to-three year cycle of normal hair growth, according to FamilyDoctor.org. About 90 percent of hair is growing at once.
- According to MedicineNet.com, omega-3 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fatty acid that's not found in your body but are essential to your health. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oils and work to lower the levels of cholesterol in the blood. The American Heart Association found that omega-3 fatty acids also decrease triglyceride levels and can slightly lower blood pressure. The association recommends eating fatty fish at least two times a week.
- Salmon oil contains a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids. WebMD calls salmon a food that can "pack a beauty punch." Salmon also has a high amount of protein as well as B-12 vitamins and iron. According to WebMD dietitians, omega-3 fatty acids are needed to support "scalp health." Not enough of them can result in a dry scalp and dry hair with a dull look. The fats found in salmon oil help improve the "overall texture" or hair and work to prevent dry, brittle hair, according carefair.com.
- In addition to salmon, tuna, mackerel and other fatty fish are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids and will help keep hair shiny. According to WebMD, a diet with low-fat dairy, whole grains and vegetables along with Vitamin A, selenium and zinc helps maintain scalp and hair health. For a good source of Vitamin A for healthy hair, eat spinach and carrots. Try Brazil nuts for selenium and oysters and walnuts for zinc.
- For those not a fan of seafood, salmon oil supplements are available. While not as good of a source as the actual fish, supplements can provide the same benefits. Anyone taking a blood thinner medication needs to check with their doctor before taking salmon oil supplements, according to Healthcastle.com
