Rich in vitamin A, carotene, potassium, and fiber, pumpkins are one of the healthier fruits you can find (yes, pumpkin is actually a fruit). They are good for reducing your blood pressure, offer protection against asthma, diabetes, and obesity. Some studies have found that the nutrients found in pumpkins can also promote hair health.
So, what is the connection between pumpkins and hair health?
Vitamin A
As we mentioned before, pumpkins are one of the best natural sources of vitamin A. This vitamin has been proven to have positive effects on hair growth by activating hair follicle stem cells. Although it can promote hair health and growth, too much vitamin A has actually been strongly connected to hair loss, so try not to overdo it.
Magnesium
One of the possible links between pumpkins and hair health is their high content of magnesium. This mineral plays a vital role in cell growth and division, as well as in protein transformation. Magnesium deficiency has also been linked to hair loss.
Copper and Zinc
These two compounds commonly found in pumpkins have often been implied as some of the most important nutrients for healthy hair.
A study by the Hallym University Kangdong Sacred Heart Hospital in South Korea compared the amounts of zinc and copper in patients diagnosed with alopecia and a healthy control group. The scientists found that the traces of zinc were dramatically lower in the hair loss patients, while the amounts of copper were not significantly different.
Conclusion
The link between pumpkins and hair health stems from their high contents of vitamin A, magnesium, copper, and zinc. If you’re concerned about your hair health, adding pumpkin to your diet may yield some benefits in the long run.
