Vitamin D is a fat-soluble nutrient. The sun is the major natural source of the nutrient and in winter, those suffering with vitamin D deficiencies are much more prevalent. The body produces vitamin D from cholesterol, providing there is an adequate amount of UV light from sun exposure. Many people do not have an optimal level of vitamin D and if one experiences this sign with their hair, supplementation may be needed.
Vitamin D is an important nutrient that is essential to one’s health.
It boosts immunity, keeps bones strong and skin healthy, stimulates cell growth, and helps create new hair follicles.
A number of symptoms, such as hair loss, can occur when the body lacks the recommended amount of vitamin D.
Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to alopecia, also known as spot baldness, and a number of other health conditions.
DON’T MISS
Why does a lack of vitamin D affect the hair?
Research by the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health looked at the role of vitamin D in the proliferation and differentiation of an epidermal cell which produces keratin.
The study found that the vitamin D receptor plays an important role in hair cycling.
The study concluded that treatments that up regulate the vitamin D receptor may be successful in treating hair disorders.
The recommended daily allowance for vitamin D is currently set at 400-800IU/day, however, recent research suggests that the safer dosage amount of vitamin D should be 10,000IU/day.
For moderate supplementation, a 1,000-2,000IU dose of vitamin D 3 is sufficient to meet the needs of most of the population.
This is the lowest effective dose range. Higher doses, based on body weight, are in the range of 20-80IU/kg daily.
Vitamin D should be taken daily, with meals or a source of fat, like fish oil.
Eating a healthy diet of foods naturally containing or fortified with vitamin D can improve levels.
Salmon, mackerel and other fatty fish, and animal fats are great sources of vitamin D.
