Q: What types of fruits and vegetables help to reduce hair loss?

A: There are quite a few vitamin and mineral deficiencies that can result in hair loss, including deficiencies in vitamin B6, pantothenic acid (B complex), zinc, vitamin E, and possibly iron. Conversely, there are vitamins and minerals that can help keep your hair healthy and strong, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, biotin and vitamin E.

Let’s take a look at the fruits and vegetables that are the best sources of these essential vitamins and minerals. Keep in mind there may be other foods (outside of produce) that are better sources, which is why a balanced diet is so important.

Vitamin B6 - Banana, avocado, soybean, broccoli.

Pantothenic acid (B complex) - Brussels sprouts, peas, corn, broccoli, avocado, lentils, split peas, cauliflower, mushrooms, lima beans, soybeans.

Zinc - Lentils, black-eyed peas, baked beans, peas.

Vitamin E - Sweet potato and soybeans.

Iron - Prune juice, dried apricots, soybeans, legumes, spinach, potato (with skin), peas.

Vitamin A – Carrots, green leafy vegetables, sweet potato, red bell pepper, darkly colored fruits.

Vitamin C - Kiwi, green/red bell pepper, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, papaya, citrus.

Biotin - Mushrooms, cauliflower, legumes.