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Want a quick fix for hair growth? Don’t be easily fooled by advertisements for hair gummies that promise Rapunzel-like hair within a fortnight. Dr Shireen Furtado, senior consultant, medical and cosmetic dermatology, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, said that hair gummies are often marketed as an easy way to get long, shiny, and healthy hair, but they are not always safe or effective.
Most hair gummies contain biotin, zinc, and other vitamins, but taking them without medical advice can cause health problems.
“Excess biotin can interfere with blood test results, leading to a wrong diagnosis of heart or thyroid issues. Some gummies also contain too much sugar, artificial colours, or preservatives, which can increase the risk of weight gain, acne, and even insulin resistance if taken regularly,” she said.
People with sensitive stomachs may also experience nausea, bloating, or diarrhoea after consuming them.
In some cases, Dr Furtado noted that excessive vitamin supplementation can put pressure on the liver and kidneys. Moreover, hair gummies cannot fix hair fall caused by hormonal imbalance, stress, or thyroid problems, as they only add extra vitamins your body may not need.
Instead of depending on gummies, she suggested focusing on a balanced diet rich in protein, iron, and vitamins from natural foods like eggs, fish, nuts, spinach, and fruits.
Karishma Shah, integrative nutritionist and health coach, shared some food sources beneficial for hair growth:
Eggs or paneer: Both are excellent sources of protein, a building block for hair. Including an adequate amount of protein in your diet promotes the growth of strong, resilient hair strands.
Walnuts: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are excellent for supporting scalp health. These healthy fats contribute to hair strength, reduce hair fall, and impart a natural shine to your locks.
Pumpkin seeds and flax seeds offer massive nutrition with very few calories. They are rich in selenium, omega-3, zinc, B vitamins, and vitamin E.
Fatty fishes: Good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which keep your hair follicles hydrated. Their antioxidant property prevents inflammation in your follicles, which would otherwise cause hair loss.
Dates: High in iron, dates contribute to preventing hair loss. Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair fall, and including iron-rich foods in your diet can address this issue.
Spinach: This leafy green is a rich source of iron and vitamins A and C. Iron is vital for transporting oxygen to the hair follicles, while vitamins A and C contribute to the production of sebum, the natural conditioner for the scalp.
Beetroots: Boosting blood circulation is essential for promoting hair growth. Beetroots contain iron, vitamins, and minerals that support improved blood flow to the scalp.
Green moong: Packed with protein and biotin, green moong supports hair strength and overall hair health.
Ghee: While traditionally used in Indian cooking, ghee provides essential fatty acids that are beneficial for maintaining a healthy scalp.
Staying hydrated, sleeping well, and reducing stress also help maintain hair health naturally. “If you are facing heavy hair fall, consult a dermatologist to identify the root cause rather than relying on gummies for quick results,” concluded Dr Furtado.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
