Just like every other part of your body, the cells and processes that support strong, vibrant hair depend on a balanced diet. Here are the “Top 10 foods for Healthy Hair”.
1. Salmon
Besides being rich in protein and vitamin D (both are key to strong hair), the omega-3 fatty acids found in this tasty cold-water fish are the true superstar. Your body can’t make those fatty acids, which it needs to grow hair. About 3% of the hair shaft is made up of these fatty acids. Omega-3’s are also found in cell membranes in the skin of your scalp, and in the natural oils that keep your scalp and hair hydrated.
2. Walnuts
These are the only type of nut that have a significant amount of omega-3 fatty acids. They’re also rich in biotin and vitamin E, which helps protect your cells from DNA damage. Since your hair rarely gets much shielding from the sun, this is especially great. Too little biotin can lead to hair loss. Walnuts also have copper, a mineral that helps keep your natural hair colour rich and lustrous.
3. Oysters
Oysters are rich in zinc, a lack of which can lead to hair loss (even in your eyelashes), as well as a dry, flaky scalp. You can get some zinc through fortified cereals and whole grain breads, but oysters can boast a good level of protein too. Hair is about 97% protein. Without enough protein, your body can’t replace the hairs that you naturally shed every day and what you do make can be dry, brittle, or weak.
4. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a great source of the antioxidant beta carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A. Every cell of the body cannot function without enough vitamin A. It also helps protect and produce the oils that sustain your scalp, and being low on vitamin A can even leave you with itchy dandruff.
5. Eggs
A great source of protein, eggs are loaded with four key minerals: zinc, selenium, sulfur, and iron. Iron is especially important, because it helps cells carry oxygen to the hair follicles, and too little iron (anemia) is a major cause of hair loss, particularly in women.
6. Spinach
The iron, beta carotene, folate, and vitamin C in spinach help keep hair follicles healthy and scalp oils circulating.
7. Lentils
Tiny but mighty, these legumes are teeming with protein, iron, zinc, and biotin, making it a great staple for vegetarian, vegans, and meat eaters.
8. Greek yogurt
Head to the dairy aisle for a great option like Greek yogurt which is high in hair-friendly protein, vitamin B5 and vitamin D.
9. Blueberries
Exotic super fruits may come and go but when it comes to vitamin C, It’s hard to top this nutrient superhero. Vitamin C is critical for circulation to the scalp and supports the tiny blood vessels that feed the follicles. Too little Vitamin C in your diet can lead to hair breakage.
10. Poultry
This everyday entree is extraordinary when it comes to protein, as well as hair-healthy zinc, iron, and B vitamins to keep strands strong and plentiful. Because hair is nearly all protein, foods rich in protein are literally giving you the building blocks for hair.
“When it comes to healthy hair, it’s not just what you put on your tresses that count — it’s what you put in your body, too!”
To compliment your healthy diet and lifestyle, using a good quality Organic hair care range (such as EverEscents) is essential in keeping your hair and body healthy. You’d be surprised at the number of nasty chemicals found in mainstream hair care products that can be absorbed into your body through your scalp. Check the ingredients before you buy.
Sourced From:
https://health.usnews.com/health-news/articles/2012/06/14/10-best-foods-for-your-hair
http://www.webmd.com/beauty/hair-styling/top-10-foods-for-healthy-hair
