Did you know that the foods you eat can affect your hair health? The condition of your hair depends on how well it’s nourished from within, and the various vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients found in food all work together to help keep your hair strong and full of body. Here are nine ways to eat for great hair.
1) Salmon
Salmon is one of the healthiest foods on the planet because it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for hair growth. Salmon also contains a nutrient called DHA, which is a building block for healthy cell membranes and skin cells. The collagen in salmon helps your hair follicles stay healthy and strong, which prevents breakage and makes your locks shinier. And that’s not all: eating salmon regularly can help reduce inflammation in your scalp and prevent dryness or flaking.
2) Oysters
Oysters are an excellent source of zinc, which is a mineral that helps with natural hair growth. They also have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which can help strengthen your hair and reduce the chance of breakage. Oysters also contain vitamin C and minerals like selenium and iron, all which help promote healthy hair.
3) Spinach
If you’re looking for a low-calorie, high-nutrient food that will help your hair grow and stay healthy, try adding spinach into your diet. This leafy green vegetable is rich in iron, which helps the body produce more red blood cells, which in turn carry oxygen throughout the body so that it can thrive. Iron also helps maintain healthy hair and scalp.
4) Sweet potatoes
One food that is great for your hair, skin, and nails is sweet potatoes. They are a great source of vitamins A and C which help promote healthy hair growth. Plus they are rich in beta-carotene which can help strengthen your hair and reduce the appearance of split ends. Sweet potatoes also contain vitamin E which helps your body produce sebum oil that will keep your scalp hydrated and healthy. So if you want to eat your way to stunning hair, try adding more sweet potato dishes into your diet!
5) Carrots
Carrots are a great way to add beta-carotene and vitamin A, which are important for healthy hair. You can juice them, or grate them and eat them raw as a salad topping. Carrots are also rich in potassium, which promotes scalp health and helps your hair grow faster.
6) Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein, which will help your hair grow faster. They also contain the important mineral selenium, which helps keep your scalp healthy and promotes hair growth. Selenium is an antioxidant that protects the scalp from free radical damage. You can get eggs from poultry like chicken or turkey, or from egg substitutes like tofu and rice flour.
7) Nuts
Nuts are an excellent source of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. They can promote heart health, help with weight loss and control diabetes. Nuts are also rich in zinc, which is essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. It’s important to eat a variety of different nuts rather than just focusing on one type or another. Almonds contain more calcium than other nuts but walnuts provide more omega-3 fatty acids than any other nut.
8) Seeds
Seeds are a great source of protein and can add a delicious crunchiness to your salad. Some seeds, like chia or poppy seeds, have a slightly nutty flavor that would go well in baked goods. Ground flaxseed is also good for you and can be used as an egg replacement for vegan recipes. Finally, pumpkin seeds are perfect for snacking on when you’re craving something salty and crunchy.
9) Greek yogurt
Greek yogurt is a godsend for so many reasons. It’s easy on your stomach, it’s good for you, and it tastes great. But did you know that Greek yogurt can also be used as a hair mask? The protein in the yogurt helps strengthen hair and makes it shinier. This mask doesn’t need any other ingredients because the yogurt is moisturizing enough.