A healthy head of hair usually means moist and vibrant tresses. But, washing with contaminated water (and repeating) can literally wash away those locks.
There are several water contaminants that cause hair loss. One is selenium, which is an element found in other ores. Most commonly, this element gets into the water system from run-off from petroleum refineries and from mine discharge. However, this element is also found in compounds that make photocopier equipment. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the best way to remove this element is by a reverse osmosis water filter.
Another metal that can cause hair loss is mercury. This element, also found in fish, can also be eliminated from water by a RO filter. Experts know that hair loss can be attributed to mercury in fish, but they aren't exactly sure why. If hair loss is being experienced by someone who is a sushi addict, it may be best to steer clear of seafood for a while. However, if hair loss is occurring in someone who does not consume fish regularly, it may be time to get the water checked for mercury. Mercury poisoning can also be detected by nausea, a metallic taste in the mouth, difficulty concentrating, weak spells, dizzy spells, tingling sensations in the hands and feet, unexplained headaches, and fatigue. All of these can point to too much mercury coming from the tap.
Lead poisoning, among many other things, can also cause hair loss. Water traveling from old lead pipes to the showerhead may be a prescription for hair loss. Zinc is also a contributor. So is aluminum. There are also literally ways to poison your hair: traces of arsenic and thallium in water can also cause hair to fall out. It should be noted that while losing hair is often a difficult experience, many of these contaminants can also cause damaging health effects which is why it is a good idea to install a whole house water filter to protect your hair and health.
Hair Nutrition 101
Besides water purification, vitamins and lifestyle changes have also been shown to encourage hair growth and even reduce hair loss. Below are several tips on how to keep your tresses healthy and vibrant through nutrition and drinking water.
Natural ways to grow hair and reduce hair loss
- Protein: Hair is made of protein so a protein deficiency can cause hair loss. Add protein to the diet by including meat, tofu, dairy, or protein shakes.
- Iron: The mineral iron helps increase circulation in the scalp which will fuel hair growth. Foods that have high iron content include liver, apricots, and raisins.
- Vitamin A: Helps create vibrant hair because it works with the fat synthesis in the hair follicles and spurs hair growth. Vitamin A can be found in carrots, kale, eggs, and squash.
- Vitamin B: Niacin (B3) promotes blood circulation to your scalp thereby encouraging hair growth. Biotin and the complex B vitamins are needed to grow hair. Vitamin B can be found in whole grains, fruit, eggs, fish, meat, and milk. Water: The hair shaft is comprised of one-quarter of water. Drink at least 4 to 8 cups of water a day to stay hydrated and grow healthy hair. Reduce alcohol & cigarettes: Drinking alcohol reduces hair growth and smoking cigarettes reduces the blood flow to the scalp.
Protect Your Water to Protect Your Hair
If you notice excessive hair loss ever since showering under a new water source, it is important to get a water test to determine the type of contaminants in your water so you can remove them. There are some cases where well water users notice excessive hair loss because of certain heavy metals in their water. Reverse osmosis technology is recommended for well water users to remove up to 99% of all contaminants in the water source. If your water is pure and does not seem to be the issue, it is important to visit the doctor because it may be a health issue. So, to keep your head full of thick and healthy hair make sure to wash it with the purest water possible. And in the meantime, you could also be protecting yourself from other serious diseases!