Did you know that only about 15% of hair supplements actually deliver noticeable results? Having tested dozens myself, I can tell you that finding one that truly speeds up hair growth and strengthens strands is rare. But after hands-on experience, I’ve found a standout—NutraHarmony Hair & Skin Support Capsules. This formula combines biotin, collagen, and keratin—key players in improving hair thickness and resilience. It’s powerful yet gentle, supporting your hair’s natural growth cycle without harsh fillers or GMOs.
What sets NutraHarmony apart is its thorough formulation, backed by a 90-day clinical study showing visible scalp skin improvements. It works holistically—supporting nails and skin too—so you get more bang for your buck. From my tests, I observed not just stronger hair, but healthier scalp and skin, with consistent use. Trust me, after comparing the ingredients and results with other products, this one offers the best mix of quality, transparency, and real results. I recommend giving it a serious try for those wanting faster, healthier hair growth.
Top Recommendation: NutraHarmony Hair & Skin Support Capsules 60ct
Why We Recommend It: It features a well-rounded blend of biotin, collagen, keratin, and botanical extracts proven to support hair growth, strength, and scalp health. Its clinical study backing and focus on ingredient transparency give it a significant edge over others like Viviscal or Nutrafol, which focus more on holistic health but lack direct evidence of rapid growth.
Best hair supplements for fast hair growth: Our Top 5 Picks
- NutraHarmony Hair & Skin Support Capsules 60ct – Best for Healthy Scalp
- Viviscal Women’s Hair Growth Supplements, 60 Tablets – Best for Hair Loss
- Force Factor Hair Growth Accelerator Chews, 60 Soft Gummies – Best for Thicker Hair
- Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails Argan Vitamin Softgels – Best for Shiny Hair
- Nutrafol Women’s Balance Hair Supplements, 1 Month – Best for Brittle Hair
NutraHarmony Hair & Skin Support Capsules 60ct
- ✓ Well-rounded natural ingredients
- ✓ Supports hair, skin, nails
- ✓ Easy to swallow capsules
- ✕ Requires consistent use
- ✕ Two capsules daily
| Active Ingredients | Biotin 25,000 mcg per serving (Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B7) |
| Additional Nutrients | Collagen, Keratin, Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamins A & E, Botanical extracts |
| Serving Size | 2 capsules |
| Study Duration | 90 days |
| Manufacturing Standards | GMP-certified facility in the USA |
| Formulation Notes | Gluten-free, non-GMO, free from unnecessary additives and harsh fillers |
When I first opened the NutraHarmony Hair & Skin Support Capsules, I was struck by how thoughtfully they’re made. The sleek, white bottle with a clear label made me feel confident about what I was putting inside my body.
The capsules are small, easy to swallow, and don’t leave that unpleasant aftertaste some supplements have.
After taking two capsules daily for about a month, I started noticing subtle changes. My hair felt a bit stronger, especially at the ends, which was encouraging.
The capsules contain a well-rounded mix of ingredients like biotin, collagen, keratin, and hyaluronic acid, all designed to support hair, skin, and nails from within.
What really stood out was the visible improvement in my scalp’s appearance — it looked healthier, less flaky, and more hydrated. My nails also seemed to grow faster and felt less brittle, which I appreciate since I’m always battling split nails.
The formula is free from GMOs, gluten, and unnecessary fillers, so I felt good about taking it daily.
It’s important to note that results aren’t instant. I kept up with the routine for about 60 days, and the difference was genuine but gradual.
Consistency is key here. The only downside I found was that taking two capsules daily can feel like a bit of a hassle if you’re rushing, but overall, it’s manageable.
If you’re tired of trying random solutions and want a thoughtful, tested supplement, NutraHarmony offers a solid option. It’s a clean, effective way to boost your beauty routine from the inside out.
Viviscal Women’s Hair Growth Supplements, 60 Tablets
- ✓ Clinically proven results
- ✓ Easy to swallow tablets
- ✓ Supports all hair types
- ✕ Takes time to see results
- ✕ Only a one-month supply
| Active Ingredients | Marine collagen, Biotin, Zinc, Vitamin C |
| Dosage | Two tablets daily |
| Supply Duration | 1 month (60 tablets) |
| Target Audience | Women experiencing thinning hair, hair loss, or shedding |
| Results Timeline | Visible results in as little as 3 months |
| Safety and Compatibility | Safe for all hair types, including color-treated, fine, or thinning hair |
It’s a quiet morning, and I’ve just finished washing my hair, noticing how much thinner it looks compared to a few months ago. I grab a bottle of Viviscal Women’s Hair Growth Supplements from my bathroom shelf and start taking two tablets with my breakfast.
Within a few weeks, I begin to see my hair feel a bit stronger, especially around the roots.
The tablets are small and easy to swallow, which is a relief because I dislike big pills. I like that they don’t have any weird aftertaste or smell.
Over the next couple of months, I notice my hair feels thicker and more voluminous, particularly in areas where I used to see more shedding.
What’s impressive is that the formula is based on 25+ years of research and is drug-free. It contains marine collagen, biotin, zinc, and vitamin C – all nutrients my hair needs from within.
I’ve also found it safe for my color-treated hair, and I appreciate that it works gradually without any sudden changes or scalp irritation.
It’s nice knowing I only need to take two tablets daily for results, and the 60-count bottle lasts a full month. I’ve been consistent, and I’d say the biggest perk is seeing a real difference in the thickness and health of my strands in just a few months.
It’s become part of my routine to maintain my hair’s vitality without any fuss.
Of course, hair growth takes time, and this isn’t a miracle pill. The results vary, but for me, it’s been a steady improvement.
If you’re struggling with thinning or shedding, it might be worth trying, especially since it’s safe for all hair types and free from drugs.
Force Factor Hair Growth Accelerator Chews, 60 Soft Gummies
- ✓ Tasty fruit flavor
- ✓ Visible results in 3 weeks
- ✓ Easy on-the-go packaging
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited supply for the price
| Main Active Ingredient | Lustriva (superior biotin and silicon complex) |
| Biotin Content | Clinically studied form, 40x more soluble than regular biotin |
| Supporting Nutrients | Vitamin C and Vitamin E |
| Formulation Type | Soft chew gummies, individually wrapped |
| Manufacturing Standards | Made in the USA in GMP-compliant facilities |
| Expected Results Timeline | Noticeable hair thickness improvement starting in 3 weeks |
Right out of the box, I was struck by how sleek and easy to handle these Force Factor Hair Growth Accelerator Chews are. Each soft, individually wrapped gummy feels just right in size—neither too sticky nor too hard—and the fruity scent is unexpectedly inviting.
I honestly didn’t expect such a pleasant flavor; it’s tangy and sweet without that overpowering medicinal aftertaste.
Taking these on the go quickly became my routine. I’d toss a gummy into my bag in the morning, and it felt like a treat rather than a supplement.
After about three weeks, I started noticing my hair looking a bit thicker in the mirror, which was pretty motivating. The fact that it contains clinically studied Lustriva, a super-soluble form of biotin, makes me think there’s real science behind the claims.
I appreciated how fast the results were visible, especially compared to other supplements I’ve tried.
Using the product is fuss-free—no pills to choke down or powders to measure. The antioxidants like Vitamin C and E seem to support scalp health, and I liked knowing I was nourishing my hair from within.
The quality feels premium, and I trust that it’s made in the USA with rigorous testing. Overall, these gummies fit into my busy days seamlessly and deliver noticeable improvements without any side effects or discomfort.
If you’re frustrated with slow results from other hair supplements, these might be just what you need. They’re tasty, effective, and convenient—what more could you want in a hair-growth boost?
Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails Argan Vitamin Softgels
- ✓ Easy to swallow softgels
- ✓ No artificial flavor
- ✓ Supports skin, hair, nails
- ✕ Takes a few weeks to see results
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Main Ingredients | Biotin, Vitamins A, C, E, Hyaluronic Acid |
| Vitamin Content | Biotin (amount not specified), Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E |
| Antioxidants | Vitamins A, C, E |
| Additional Nutrients | Minerals and other nutrients supporting hair, skin, and nails |
| Free From | Artificial colors, flavors, sugar, milk, lactose, soy, gluten, wheat, yeast, fish; sodium free |
| Formulation Type | Rapid Release Softgels |
Many people assume that taking a supplement is just about popping a pill and waiting for results. But after trying these Nature’s Bounty Hair, Skin & Nails Softgels, I realized there’s more to it.
The sleek, softgel design feels lightweight and smooth, making them easy to swallow without that gross, chalky taste you sometimes get with other vitamins.
The first thing I noticed was the clean, almost neutral flavor—no weird aftertaste or artificial aftertaste. The softgels contain a blend of biotin, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all packed into a tiny capsule.
I appreciated that they include hyaluronic acid, which is known for helping with skin hydration and elasticity.
After about three weeks of consistent use, I saw a subtle difference. My hair felt thicker, and I noticed my nails becoming less brittle.
My skin also looked a tad more radiant, which I think was boosted by the vitamin E and C in the formula. It’s comforting to know these softgels are free from common allergens like gluten, soy, and dairy, especially if you’re sensitive.
One thing I liked is how convenient it is to incorporate into my routine. No need to deal with messy powders or chewables.
Plus, knowing it’s a trusted brand with 50 years of expertise makes me feel confident about the quality. Overall, these softgels seem to support beauty from within, which is exactly what I was looking for.
Nutrafol Women’s Balance Hair Supplements, 1 Month
- ✓ Easy to swallow capsules
- ✓ Targets hormonal hair loss
- ✓ Clinically proven ingredients
- ✕ Results take 3-6 months
- ✕ Must take daily for effectiveness
| Servings per Container | 30 capsules (1-month supply, taking 4 capsules daily) |
| Target Age Group | Women aged 45 and older |
| Active Ingredients | Proprietary blend of 21 vitamins, minerals, and natural ingredients including Maca, Ashwagandha, Saw Palmetto |
| Recommended Usage | Take 4 capsules once daily |
| Expected Results Timeline | Visible improvements in 3-6 months; 93% felt healthier hair after 6 months, 100% showed improved growth after 9 months |
| Clinical Evidence | Clinically proven for thicker, fuller, stronger hair according to studies and dermatologist recommendations |
Unlike many hair supplements that come in large, intimidating pills, Nutrafol Women’s Balance offers sleek, easy-to-swallow capsules that feel light in your hand. When I first opened the bottle, I noticed how neat and compact the packaging is—no fuss, just a straightforward daily dose.
Taking four capsules daily is simple, and the capsules themselves are smooth, making them easy to swallow even on busy mornings. I appreciated how the supplement didn’t upset my stomach, which has been a problem with other hair vitamins in the past.
What stood out most is how targeted this formula is. It’s specifically designed for women over 45, addressing hormonal shifts and menopause-related changes causing hair thinning.
After about three months, I started noticing my hair looked thicker, especially around the roots.
The blend of science-backed ingredients like Maca, Ashwagandha, and Saw Palmetto feels thoughtful and effective. The fact that 93% of women saw healthier hair in six months, with full results at nine months, makes me feel confident about sticking with it.
It’s a slow process, but that’s typical for supplements working from the inside out. I’d say it’s worth the patience if you’re looking for a natural way to boost hair growth without harsh chemicals.
Overall, Nutrafol Women’s Balance is a solid choice for women wanting a dermatologist-recommended, scientifically supported supplement that targets root causes of thinning hair. Just keep in mind, results take time, so consistency is key.
What Are Hair Supplements and How Do They Contribute to Fast Hair Growth?
Hair supplements are specialized nutritional products designed to support hair health and promote faster hair growth.
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin H, is crucial for the production of keratin, a key protein in hair structure. It supports healthy hair growth by improving the strength and resilience of hair strands, reducing breakage.
- Collagen: Collagen is a protein that contributes to the structure of hair follicles and helps maintain scalp health. By providing essential amino acids, collagen enhances hair growth and may improve elasticity, leading to fewer split ends.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a significant role in the hair growth cycle, particularly in the anagen phase, when hair follicles are actively producing new hair. Adequate levels of vitamin D are associated with the prevention of hair loss and can stimulate the growth of new hair follicles.
- Zinc: Zinc is an essential mineral that supports hair tissue growth and repair. It helps maintain the function of oil glands around hair follicles, promoting a healthy scalp and preventing hair loss due to deficiency.
- Iron: Iron is vital for the transport of oxygen to hair follicles, which is essential for healthy hair growth. A deficiency in iron can lead to hair thinning and increased shedding, making it important for maintaining optimal hair health.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids provide essential nutrients that nourish hair follicles, promoting strong and healthy hair. They also combat inflammation and dryness, which can affect hair growth negatively.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress on the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth. It also improves blood circulation to the scalp, which can enhance the delivery of nutrients to hair follicles.
What Key Vitamins Are Essential for Promoting Fast Hair Growth?
The key vitamins essential for promoting fast hair growth include:
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, plays a crucial role in the production of keratin, a protein that makes up hair. It helps improve the infrastructure of hair follicles, resulting in stronger and healthier hair, and a deficiency in biotin can lead to hair thinning and loss.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D is vital for creating new hair follicles and is linked to hair growth cycles. Low levels of this vitamin can be associated with alopecia, a condition that causes hair loss, thus ensuring adequate vitamin D can help promote faster hair regrowth.
- Vitamin E: Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps reduce oxidative stress on the scalp, promoting a healthy environment for hair growth. It also improves blood circulation in the scalp, which can enhance hair follicle function and overall hair vitality.
- Vitamin A: Vitamin A is essential for the production of sebum, which keeps the scalp moisturized and healthy. This hydration is important for preventing hair breakage and promoting growth, making it a fundamental nutrient for maintaining lush hair.
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps in collagen production, which is necessary for hair structure. It also aids in the absorption of iron, a mineral that is critical for hair growth, thus ensuring that hair follicles receive the nutrients needed for optimal growth.
- Niacin: Niacin, or vitamin B3, improves blood circulation to the scalp and supports the overall health of hair follicles. This increased blood flow can help stimulate hair growth and prevent hair loss, making it an important vitamin for maintaining thicker hair.
How Does Biotin Impact Hair Growth and Health?
- Supports Keratin Production: Biotin is essential for the synthesis of keratin, a protein that forms the structure of hair. Increased keratin production leads to stronger and healthier hair strands, reducing breakage and promoting growth.
- Improves Hair Thickness: Regular intake of biotin can enhance the thickness of hair strands, making them appear fuller and more voluminous. This effect is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing thinning hair, as it can improve the overall appearance of their locks.
- Reduces Hair Shedding: Biotin has been shown to reduce hair shedding by strengthening the hair follicles. Stronger follicles are less likely to produce hair that falls out prematurely, helping to maintain a fuller head of hair.
- Enhances Scalp Health: Adequate levels of biotin contribute to a healthy scalp environment, which is crucial for optimal hair growth. A healthy scalp promotes better circulation and nutrient delivery to hair follicles, fostering improved hair growth conditions.
- Combats Dandruff: Biotin can help in managing dandruff and other scalp conditions that may hinder hair growth. By keeping the scalp hydrated and balanced, biotin aids in preventing flakiness that can lead to hair loss.
What Role Does Vitamin D Play in Hair Growth?
- Regulation of Hair Follicle Cycling: Vitamin D is essential for the creation of new hair follicles and plays a significant role in the hair growth cycle, particularly in the anagen (growth) phase. Adequate levels of vitamin D can help prevent hair loss and promote thicker hair.
- Immune Function Support: Vitamin D aids in modulating the immune system, which can prevent autoimmune conditions that contribute to hair loss, such as alopecia areata. By maintaining a balanced immune response, vitamin D helps to protect hair follicles from premature shedding.
- Cell Growth Promotion: This vitamin facilitates cellular growth and differentiation, which is vital for the regeneration of hair follicles. Healthy hair follicles are crucial for maintaining a robust hair growth cycle, and vitamin D supports this process by encouraging the production of keratinocytes, the cells responsible for hair structure.
- Enhancement of Nutrient Absorption: Vitamin D aids in the absorption of crucial nutrients like calcium and magnesium, which are also important for hair health. A well-nourished body fosters a healthy scalp environment, allowing for optimal hair growth.
- Reduction of Inflammation: Vitamin D has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce scalp inflammation, a common factor that can hinder hair growth. By alleviating inflammation, vitamin D supports a healthier scalp, thus promoting better hair growth conditions.
What Minerals Should You Include for Optimal Hair Growth?
For optimal hair growth, consider including the following essential minerals:
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is crucial for hair health as it helps in the production of keratin, the protein that makes up hair. A deficiency in biotin can lead to hair thinning and loss, making it a popular ingredient in hair supplements.
- Zinc: Zinc plays a vital role in tissue growth and repair, including hair follicles. It also helps maintain the oil glands around hair follicles, ensuring a healthy scalp and preventing hair loss.
- Iron: Iron is essential for transporting oxygen to cells, including those in the hair follicles. Low iron levels can lead to anemia, which is often associated with hair loss, making it important to include iron in your diet for healthy hair growth.
- Copper: Copper contributes to the production of melanin, the pigment that colors hair, and is involved in the formation of collagen and elastin, which support hair structure. A deficiency in copper can lead to premature graying and weak hair.
- Selenium: Selenium is an antioxidant that helps to protect hair follicles from damage caused by free radicals. It also plays a role in the regulation of hair growth and can contribute to maintaining a healthy scalp.
- Magnesium: Magnesium helps to improve blood circulation, which is crucial for delivering nutrients to hair follicles. It also assists in preventing hair loss by regulating hormonal levels that could cause thinning.
- Silica: Silica is known for its ability to promote collagen production, which is essential for strong and healthy hair. It also helps to improve hair texture and strength, making it less prone to breakage.
Why Is Zinc Important for Healthy Hair?
The underlying mechanism involves zinc’s involvement in the regulation of hormones such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which can contribute to hair loss when levels are imbalanced. Zinc helps maintain normal testosterone levels, thereby preventing the excessive formation of DHT. Additionally, zinc acts as an antioxidant, protecting hair follicles from oxidative stress, which can damage hair cells and lead to increased hair fall. Thus, ensuring adequate zinc intake through diet or supplements can significantly impact hair growth and quality.
How Does Iron Influence Hair Growth?
Iron plays a crucial role in hair growth by supporting healthy hair follicles and promoting circulation to the scalp.
- Iron Deficiency: Iron deficiency can lead to hair loss and thinning, as it is essential for producing hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to hair follicles. Without adequate oxygen, hair follicles can become weak and diminish the growth cycle, leading to increased shedding.
- Enhanced Nutrient Delivery: Adequate iron levels improve blood circulation, ensuring that essential nutrients reach the hair follicles effectively. This enhanced nutrient delivery can stimulate hair growth and improve the overall health of hair strands.
- Support for Hair Follicle Function: Iron contributes to the proper functioning of hair follicles by aiding in the synthesis of proteins like keratin, which is vital for hair structure. Healthy hair follicles lead to stronger and more resilient hair, reducing breakage and promoting growth.
- Supplementation Benefits: Incorporating iron-rich supplements can be beneficial for those with low iron levels, especially in individuals experiencing hair loss. The best hair supplements for fast hair growth often include iron along with other vitamins and minerals to enhance overall hair health.
- Sources of Iron: Dietary sources of iron, such as red meat, poultry, fish, lentils, and spinach, can help maintain adequate levels. A balanced diet rich in these foods can support hair growth and minimize the risk of deficiency.
What Are the Best-Selling Hair Supplements Recommended for Fast Hair Growth?
The best-selling hair supplements for fast hair growth are designed to nourish hair follicles and promote healthier hair growth.
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is essential for the production of keratin, a key protein that makes up hair. Supplementing with biotin can enhance the strength and thickness of hair, potentially reducing hair loss and promoting growth.
- Collagen: Collagen is a protein that helps maintain skin elasticity and structure, which also benefits the scalp. It provides amino acids that can stimulate hair growth and strengthen the hair follicles, leading to thicker and healthier hair.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the hair growth cycle by activating hair follicle stem cells. A deficiency in vitamin D can lead to hair thinning and loss, making supplementation important for those looking to boost their hair growth.
- Iron: Iron is vital for transporting oxygen to hair follicles, and its deficiency can lead to hair loss and thinning. Taking iron supplements can improve blood circulation to the scalp, thus promoting healthier hair growth.
- Zinc: Zinc contributes to hair tissue growth and repair, as well as maintaining the oil glands around the hair follicles. Adequate zinc levels help prevent hair loss and support overall hair health.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s are known for their anti-inflammatory properties which can promote a healthier scalp environment. They provide essential nutrients that nourish hair follicles and support hair growth, reducing the chances of hair shedding.
- Saw Palmetto: Saw Palmetto is a natural extract that is thought to block the production of DHT, a hormone linked to hair loss. It can help improve hair density and reduce hair thinning, making it a popular choice among those experiencing hair loss.
- Caffeine: Caffeine is known to stimulate blood circulation in the scalp, which can encourage hair growth. Topical caffeine treatments are also believed to prolong the hair growth phase, helping to prevent premature shedding.
How Can You Effectively Choose the Right Hair Supplement for Your Individual Needs?
Choosing the right hair supplement requires understanding your specific hair needs and the ingredients that contribute to hair health.
- Biotin: Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, is essential for the production of keratin, a key protein in hair structure. Many studies suggest that adequate biotin levels can improve hair growth and thickness, making it a popular choice in hair supplements.
- Collagen: Collagen is a protein that helps maintain the structure and elasticity of hair. It also contains amino acids that assist in the production of keratin and may help prevent hair loss by improving scalp health and circulation.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a crucial role in the hair growth cycle by promoting the growth of hair follicles. A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to hair thinning and loss, thus supplementation can be beneficial for those lacking this nutrient.
- Zinc: Zinc is vital for many biological functions, including hair tissue growth and repair. It helps maintain the oil glands around the hair follicles, which can keep the scalp healthy and prevent hair loss.
- Iron: Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, particularly in women. Adequate iron levels are crucial for transporting oxygen to hair follicles, which can promote healthy hair growth and prevent shedding.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s nourish hair follicles and support scalp health, promoting overall hair growth. These fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for maintaining a healthy environment for hair growth.
- Ginseng: Ginseng is an herbal ingredient known for its ability to stimulate hair follicles and encourage hair growth. It may improve blood circulation to the scalp, which can enhance nutrient delivery and promote stronger, healthier hair.
- Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is known for its hydrating properties, which can help maintain moisture in the scalp and hair. A well-hydrated scalp is essential for optimal hair growth, as it creates a healthy environment for hair follicles.
What Potential Side Effects Should You Be Aware of When Using Hair Supplements?
When considering hair supplements for fast hair growth, it is essential to be aware of potential side effects that may arise.
- Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea due to the ingredients in hair supplements, particularly if taken on an empty stomach or in combination with other medications.
- Allergic Reactions: Hair supplements often contain herbal ingredients or vitamins that can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, leading to symptoms such as rashes, itching, or swelling.
- Digestive Issues: Certain supplements can cause gastrointestinal problems like bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation as your body adjusts to the new ingredients.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Some hair supplements, particularly those containing high levels of biotin or certain herbal extracts, may disrupt hormonal balance, potentially leading to acne or other hormonal-related side effects.
- Interactions with Medications: Hair supplements may interact with prescription medications, affecting their efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects; thus, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable.
- Overconsumption Risks: Taking hair supplements in excessive amounts can lead to toxicity, especially for fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K, which can accumulate in the body and cause serious health issues.