You’re curious about whether vegans grow hair faster? Let me tell you what I learned about this in my research.
Do vegans grow hair faster?
The short answer is yes. Data shows that vegans have, on average, thicker hair than non-vegans. This is likely because of the higher intake of omega 3 fatty acids in the vegan diet compared to non-vegetarians.
How does a vegan diet affect your hair growth?
Hair growth is a very organic process in the human body. It requires a healthy body and mind. Many people assume that a vegan diet is deficient in essential nutrients and can impact hair growth.
However, this is not true as long as a person follows the right diet. Tofu and soy products are rich sources of protein, choline, and biotin which are needed for healthy hair growth.
Biotin helps to boost the metabolism of fatty acids, improves the absorption of amino acids, and promotes cell division. Vitamin A is another essential nutrient that aids in hair growth. It prevents graying of hair, speeds up hair growth, and repairs split ends.
This vitamin also helps to improve blood circulation around the scalp to promote proper hair growth. A vegan diet is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that can prevent dryness in the scalp and dandruff.
Protein from soybeans also provides keratin which strengthens your nails and hair follicles making them less prone to breakage or damage.
Although there are many reasons for one’s hair loss like thyroid problems, stress, or genetics following a vegan lifestyle does not harm your hair growth at all.
Best vegan diet for fast hair growth
This section will give you some advice on how to choose the best vegan diet for fast hair growth.
Omega-3 fatty acids
People who have a vegetarian diet tend to have lower levels of omega 3 acids in their system. Omega 3 acids help in the production of cells and make your hair shiny and soft. Flax seeds, flaxseed oil, walnuts, peanuts, soybeans, tofu, and hummus are some of the best vegan sources of omega 3 fatty acids.
The Macrobiotic Diet
This diet consists of whole grains like brown rice, barley, oats, and wheat; vegetables such as onions, ginger, and leeks; seaweed; beans; nuts; seeds, and fruit. Macrobiotic eaters also avoid refined sugar, salt, and fats as well as dairy products and eggs.
Since this diet is rich in minerals, vitamins, and fiber, it promotes healthy hair growth.
In addition to consuming foods that contain protein, iron, and zinc, macrobiotic eaters also consume sea vegetables like kelp that provide them with iodine which is essential for producing thyroid hormones that control hair growth.
Raw Vegan Diet
A raw vegan diet includes only plant-based foods that are uncooked or unheated above 115 degrees Fahrenheit. A raw vegan diet is the best way to gain fast hair growth because it’s rich in vitamins and minerals that promote healthy hair growth and prevent breakage.
Whole grains
These contain complex carbohydrates which are vital for hair growth. They help provide energy to the body and work as a natural treatment for dandruff.
Vegetables and fruits
These contain vital nutrients that promote hair growth, including antioxidants and vitamins. The B-complex vitamins are helpful for strengthening the roots and shafts of your hair.
How to treat hair loss if you’re a vegan
Being vegan doesn’t mean that you have to suffer from unhealthy hair. In fact, plenty of vegans has very attractive and strong hair.
Even if you aren’t a vegan but are looking to improve the condition of your hair, you can try some of these methods.
Here are 10 tips on how to treat hair loss if you’re a vegan:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Eat plenty of protein.
- Avoid chemicals and toxins in food and beauty products.
- Get adequate rest.
- Exercise regularly.
- Stay away from heated appliances such as curling irons, straighteners, and blow dryers as they may cause excessive heat damage to your hair.
- Don’t over-wash your hair.
- Keep hair clean by shampooing it every 3 to 4 days, or less if possible.
- Use natural products on your hair such as coconut oil, olive oil, apple cider vinegar or lemon juice mixed with water rather than commercial products which can be harmful to your hair and scalp.
- Avoid brushing or combing your hair when it’s wet because the wetter it is the more fragile it becomes.
Can vegans use hair conditioners?
Yes, vegans can use conditioner. All conditioners are plant-based and don’t contain any animal products, so vegans can use them.
Toning down the frizzies is a good thing for everybody, not just vegans! Conditioner is not just for hair; it can be used in place of shaving cream or facial cleanser.
If you have long hair, you can put conditioner in your hair and then put it up in a bun until it dries. Then take the material out of your hair and you’ll have soft silky hair.
If you’re having problems with frizzy hair like I do, I suggest using a leave-in conditioning spray rather than trying to brush your hair after you get out of the shower. That way the conditioner will stay on your hair longer.
Also, try not to rub your hair with a towel when drying it off because that will also cause frizzies. Let your hair air dry then brush it after it’s completely dry and you’ll see a big difference!
If you still have frizzy problems, buy a wide-tooth comb instead of a brush so you won’t break as many strands of hair while brushing.
Final Thoughts
After decades of hype, evidence is growing that veganism is not only a healthy lifestyle but one that can help to reverse the effects of aging.
Even if you aren’t planning to become a vegan in the near future, it’s worth taking a look at the facts—and perhaps tucking them away for later, just in case. Now you have no excuse not to try this healthy diet.
