Wellness Blog
The content on this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your health routine or taking new supplements.
How to Increase Energy: Vitamins, Supplements & Diet
What's the best way of boosting your energy levels? And what vitamins are good for energy? We've got all the answers you need right here.
Learn moreNatural Pre-Workout Tips for a Productive Workout
Headed to the gym and thinking of optimising your natural pre-workout routine? Wondering what supplements you should be taking for working out? Here's everything you need to know.
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Prebiotics vs probiotics: what’s the difference and why do they matter for gut health?
Prebiotics and probiotics can give your gut a mighty boost, but, what exactly are they? Read on to discover the difference between prebiotics and probiotics.
Learn moreVitamin C For Energy: Give Yourself Some Support
Does vitamin C support your energy levels? Yes it does indeed, and here's our list of recommended sources. If you're ever feeling fatigued or lethargic, you'll know what to do with this handy guide.
Learn moreThe Benefits of B Complex Vitamins for Energy
Can vitamin B complex really give you an energy boost? Here's everything you need to know.
Learn moreBest Supplements for Healthy Hair
What are the best nutrients for hair health and hair growth? Or vitamins for hair thickness? Find all the answers you need right here.
Learn moreWhat is bioavailability? How to ensure you're absorbing your supplements
Have you heard of the term bioavailability before? If you haven't — it's time to learn something new. We break down what bioavailability is, and why it's so important.
Learn moreTired of your thin, lacklustre hair? Here are 3 vitamins to make your hair thicker naturally
Healthy looking hair can be an indicator that you're practicing the right hair care methods and getting your fill of nutrient-rich foods. While most of us can get sufficient nutrients that the body needs through diet, some of us can lack the essential vitamins and minerals required for luscious healthy hair. Believe it or not, your scalp has over 100,000 hair follicles that thrive on various minerals, whereby any malnutrition can result in hair colour change, hair weakening and even hair loss. Let's get to know top tips on how to get thick hair, plus the vitamins and minerals that can support your efforts in maintaining hair health. Hair Care TipsWe understand the role of vitamins and minerals in maintaining healthy hair, but without basic care for hair, we might not achieve what we set out to do in the first place. Here are some easy hair care tips you can put into practice starting today:Choosing the right shampooIf you have coloured your hair, you might want to consider using a shampoo designed for colour-treated hair. If your hair is damaged to a certain degree or chemically treated, consider a 2-in-1 shampoo (19).Wash oily hair more frequentlyThe frequency of hair washing you should do depends on the amount of oil that your scalp produces. If your scalp is oily, you could wash it once a day (19). If you have chemically-treated hair, you may want to wash it less frequently (19). Another good tip to keep in mind with hair-washing is that the older you get, the less oil is produced by your scalp. So it may be a good idea to reduce the frequency of washing then. However, if you see flakes in your hair, it's probably because you're not shampooing enough (19).Address hair problemsThere are certain conditions that impair hair health, but there are also ways to protect it. Individuals can be affected by hair loss (alopecia) (6), dandruff (7) and monilethrix, whereby individual strands get the appearance of a beaded necklace because of intermittent narrowing of the hair shaft (5).However, regular use of shampoo and conditioner appropriate for your hair type (17) and good nutrition (18) are all useful for how to get thick hair. Don't forget to speak to your dermatologist if you're experiencing hair or scalp problems.Get the right nutrientsThese, too, help with hair strength, growth and shine: Beta-carotene, vitamins B1, B2, niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), B6, B12, vitamin E, selenium and folate are just some of the nutrients involved in hair health (18).Other nutrients to help you with hair health are:CranberryVitable's cranberry formula includes silica, which supports hair health (8). This mineral is believed to be necessary for the synthesis of collagen, the protein that enhances skin strength and elasticity. According to a study, a deficiency in this mineral induces hair loss (10). Silica has also been found to boost hair thickness, among other benefits for skin and nails (9).Collagen creamerTaking collagen creamer may be a way to get thick hair. This protein is the most prolific in the human body. It makes up connective tissue and is present in bone, skin, muscles, tendons and cartilage. Collagen supplements contain amino acids and other nutrients that support hair health, such as vitamin C, biotin and zinc (11). It is made up primarily of amino acids glycine, proline and hydroxyproline (12), the latter two of which are most abundant in keratin (13), the structural protein forming hair and nails in humans (14). BiotinAlso known as vitamin B7, this nutrient plays a role in protein synthesis, particularly keratin. A study demonstrated the positive link between hair and nail growth, and supplementation of this vitamin in biotin-deficient patients. Loading up on this nutrient may be an answer to the question of how to get thick hair as a deficiency has been connected to the thinning or loss of hair (15).It's no secret that our hair can influence our overall self-image, and however we choose to have it styled or cut can impact our self identity and self-expression. If you're looking to increase your hair thickness and growth, remember, a balanced diet, reduced stress and a range of topical, natural products will aid you in improving hair strength, thickness and lustre.If you are interested in methods for how to get thick hair, or anything related to hair health, consider personalised vitamins tailored to your needs. Vitable vitamins allow you to make your own vitamin plan, which means you can choose which supplements go with your vitamin subscription box. For your convenience, their service includes vitamin delivery in Australia.*Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. Vitamin and/or mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.References: Park, AM, et. al. “Hair Biology: Growth and Pigmentation.” Facial Plastic Surgery Clinics of North America. Published Nov 2018 on 10.1016/j.fsc.2018.06.003. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “What is the structure of hair and how does it grow?” InformedHealth.org. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. Published 29 Aug 2019 on https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK65083/. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. Yang, F, et. al. “The structure of people's hair.” PeerJ. Published 14 Oct 2014 on 10.7717/peerj.619. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Basic Structure of Hair.” Central Bucks School District. Published 22 Mar 2005 on https://www.cbsd.org/cms/lib010/PA01916442/Centricity/Domain/1870/hair%20info.pdf. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Monilethrix.” MedlinePlus. Published 18 Aug 2020 on https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/condition/monilethrix/#causes. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Hair loss.” Mayo Clinic. Published 22 May 2020 on https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hair-loss/symptoms-causes/syc-20372926. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Dandruff.” Mayo Clinic. Published 21 Sep 2021 on https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dandruff/symptoms-causes/syc-20353850. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Cranberry.” Vitable. Published on https://research.get.vitable.com.au/cranberry. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. Lassus, A. “Colloidal silicic acid for oral and topical treatment of aged skin, fragile hair and brittle nails in females.” The Journal of International Medical Research. Published Jul-Aug 1993 on 10.1177/030006059302100406. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. De Araujo, LA, et. al. “Use of silicon for skin and hair care: an approach of chemical forms available and efficacy*.” Anais Brasileiros De Dermatologia (the official publication of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology). Published May-Jun 2016 on 10.1590/abd1806-4841.20163986. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Collagen.” Harvard School of Public Health. Published on https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/collagen/. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. Wu, M, et. al. “Biochemistry, Collagen Synthesis.” StatPearls. Published 13 Sep 2021 on https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK507709/#:~:text=Collagen%20is%20protein%20molecules%20made%20up%20of%20amino,perfect%20matrix%20for%20skin%2C%20tendons%2C%20bones%2C%20and%20ligaments.. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. Strnad, P, et. al. “Unique amino acid signatures that are evolutionarily conserved distinguish simple-type, epidermal and hair keratins.” Journal of Cell Science. Published Dec 2011 on 10.1242/jcs.089516. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Keratin.” Encyclopedia Britannica. Published 28 Feb 2020 on https://www.britannica.com/science/keratin. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. Patel, DP, et. al. “A Review of the Use of Biotin for Hair Loss.” Skin Appendage Disorders. Published 27 Apr 2017 on 10.1159/000462981. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “What is ‘Good Hair'?” Perception Institute. Published on https://perception.org/goodhair/whatisgoodhair/. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Tips for healthy hair.” American Academy of Dermatology Association. Published on https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/healthy-hair-tips. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Nutrition and Hair Health.” The Trichological Society. Published on https://www.hairscientists.org/hair-and-scalp-conditions/nutrition-and-hair-health. Accessed 24 Jan 2022. “Tips for healthy hair.” American Academy of Dermatology Association. Published on https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/hair-scalp-care/hair/healthy-hair-tips. Accessed 22 Feb 2022.
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7 rules for healthy hair
Would you like shinier, healthier-looking hair? Fortunately, you achieve this with just a few simple changes to your hair care routine. It's a common misconception that healthy hair is as simple as the shampoo and conditioner you use and getting rid of your styling tools. But don't worry, you don't have to completely give up your beloved straightener just yet. So here are 7 rules for healthy hair. 7 Tips for Healthy Hair To help bring back your hair's natural shine and bounce, here are seven tips for healthy hair. 1) Treat wet hair gently and use a hairdryer When you jump out of the shower, you probably want to grab your hairdryer or towel straight away and give it a dry, but if you're not careful with how you do this, you could actually be damaging your hair. First of all, you should not vigorously towel-dry wet strands of hair because this can cause the follicles to become frizzy and lead to breakage. All you need to do with the towel is press, pat and gently scrunch the hair to remove excess water. It's important not to rub too hard on water-weakened hair, otherwise, your hair can become frizzy.It's commonly believed that it's better to let your hair air-dry naturally than using a hairdryer. However, a Korean study found that letting your hair dry naturally could actually be worse for your hair. When your hair is wet, it swells, and if you leave your hair like this too long it puts pressure on the delicate proteins that keep your hair intact, ultimately causing more damage. So let your hair dry naturally to about 70-80%, and dry the remaining with a hairdryer on cool a temperature.2) Eat a healthy, balanced diet You can't control the way your genetics and age affect your hair, but one thing you can control is your diet. A healthy, balanced diet can actually promote hair growth. For example, hair follicles are mostly made up of protein, so eating a diet rich in protein is particularly important for growth. Other vitamins and minerals play a role in your hair health, which we'll take a look at next.3) Look after your scalpAccording to hair care experts, the skin on your scalp is basically an extension of the skin on your forehead with oil glands and sweat glands, and like the face, it can be beneficial to tone and exfoliate it regularly.The scalp is often overlooked when it comes to healthy hair but the key to healthy, bouncy hair lies in a healthy and clean scalp. Since the follicles emerge from the scalp, it's important to maintain a healthy scalp by cleansing it to remove bacteria and sweat, excess oil and sebum build-up.4) Use healthy hair treatmentsEven if you wash your hair with salon-quality shampoo and conditioner, your hair will benefit from treatments, such as a deep conditioning mask. If your hair is dry and damaged, opt for a mask that's rich in natural oils, a couple of times a week.Research has found that oils particularly smooth and rehydrates the hair shaft, so why not opt for a home remedy treatment? Olive oil is an excellent and affordable option that's been shown to replenish moisture and soften damaged hair.5) Don't over-brushYou might think that brushing your hair is as simple as detangling and smoothing it out. Stop there. There's a right and a wrong way to brush your hair, and you can cause damage by brushing incorrectly.When your hair is wet, it's particularly vulnerable to breakage so it's especially important that you use a comb or a brush designed for wet hair. Since hair is weakest when it's wet, a great way to detangle your hair is to brush it prior to washing it in the shower.The other hack you need to know is that the type of brush you use is important. Generally speaking, combs are better for your hair because they are gentler on your hair follicles, but if you are going to use a brush, choose one with widely-spaced plastic bristles. Natural bristles can be sharp and too close together and make sure you stay away from metal prongs. 6) Minimise the use of hot toolsThe good news is you don't have to completely ditch your straightener and curling iron to have healthy hair. There are ways to minimise the damage to your hair when styling it, such as using a thermal protectant, which puts a barrier between the heat and your hair.If you're someone who uses a blow dryer to style your hair, be sure to invest in a good quality blow dryer with a proper nozzle, and correct your blow-drying technique. Try to limit the number of times you apply heat to your hair to three to four times, because the less heat you apply to your hair the better.7) Zinc + B complexIf you're experiencing hair loss, it could be the result of a zinc deficiency. Zinc is important for hair tissue growth and keeps the oil glands around the follicles healthy. B complex is a group of eight different vitamins involved in converting food to energy. Each of the different vitamins has a different role in the body. The B7 vitamin, known as Biotin is essential for healthy hair and hair growth. Studies have found that people with biotin deficiencies experienced greater hair loss.Both zinc and B-vitamins can be found in foods, but you may also want to consider a supplement. Excellent sources of zinc are beef, spinach, oysters, lentils and pumpkin seeds. Foods that are rich in biotin are whole cooked eggs, oysters, organ meats, wheat bran and baker's yeast. At the end of the day, you can easily achieve healthy hair with a few small changes to your hair care routine. Find out more about other areas that the above supplements can help you with:Zinc | B Complex | Biotin *Always read the label. Follow the directions for use. If symptoms persist, talk to your health professional. Vitamin and/or mineral supplements should not replace a balanced diet.
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