Is Dry Hair Related to Omega-3 Fatty Acids Deficiency?

Is Dry Hair Related to Omega-3 Fatty Acids Deficiency?
by Patsy Hamilton

acids found in fish oil and hair loss related to chemotherapy administered to cancer
patients. These studies concluded that there was some benefit. Other studies
concerning increased consumption of fish oil and hair loss reduction in patients
receiving chemotherapy have been positive, as well.

There are numerous health benefits associated with increased consumption of
omega-3 fatty acids, particularly to the heart and brain. Scientific studies have
confirmed again and again that essential fatty acids may prevent certain types of
heart disease and cancer. Fatty acids have proven effective in relieving symptoms of
depression and other neurological conditions. It is believed that they can improve
memory and possibly IQ. The best known sources of omega-3 fatty acids are fish oil.

Questions concerning a fish oil supplement and hair benefit are frequently posed to
hair care professionals. While there have been no studies that focused specifically on
dry hair, hair care professionals and doctors agree that good nutrition improves the
appearance of both the hair and the skin. In fact, dry hair can be related to dry skin
on the scalp. The oils that normally protect the hair are produced by the scalp. Over
washing, blow drying, low quality shampoos and even the weather can all affect the
health of the skin, scalp and hair.

Vitamin E has long been recommended to relieve dry skin and as a hair treatment.
Some of the best fish oil supplements contain vitamin E, but not all. Consumers must
read labels carefully to be sure.

In infants, dietary deficiency of certain fatty acids is characterized by dry, flaky skin. It
seems likely that adults with dietary deficiency of omega-3 fatty acids would
experience the same symptoms. The bottom line is that dry skin, in the diet. Numerous health
benefits are believed to be provided by a fish oil supplement and hair benefit may be
an added bonus.

About The Author

Patsy Hamilton was a health care professional for over twenty years before
becoming a freelance writer. Currently she is writing a series of articles about
omega-3 fatty acids. Read more at
To learn more about the best fish
oil supplements, please visit the at
.

Is dry hair related to omega-3 fatty
acids deficiency? The short answer is
maybe, maybe not. Scientists do not
concern themselves much with dry
hair, except as a symptom of other
conditions. Hair care professionals
typically recommend a good
multi-vitamin, non-drying shampoos
and leave-on conditioners to correct
problems with dry or brittle hair.

There is little scientific evidence
suggesting that dry hair is related to
omega-3 fatty acids deficiency.
However, researchers in Japan have
conducted studies concerning fatty

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The content on
this website is for educational purposes only. Please consult with your physician before using natural
remedies and before making any drastic changes to your diet or exercise program.