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10 Super Foods for Healthy Hair

Written by Dr. Steven Dayan | Feb 16, 2017 8:59:47 PM

Did you know that when you eat a balanced diet rich in fish, various proteins grains, etc. that it not only effects your skin but has a positive effect on your hair as well? This isn’t breaking news, so I’m sure most of you already know that. But do you know which foods to eat? If not, read on to see the 10 foods that should be incorporated into your diet!

Salmon – Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which are needed to support scalp health. Various studies suggest that a deficiency in these essential fatty acids may result in a dry scalp, thus giving hair a dull look. With the colder months coming up it’s especially important to be mindful of keeping your scalp healthy.

Oysters – You may better associate oysters with their reputation for being an aphrodisiac but they have the powerful antioxidant, Zinc which is essential for healthy hair and scalp. I happen to love oysters but I am aware that they’re an acquired taste, so don’t fret, if oysters don’t frequent your dinner plate, you can also get zinc from beef and lamb, or pumpkin seeds and chickpeas.

Dark Green Veggies – Spinach, broccoli, and swiss chard (leafy green vegetable normally used in Mediterranean cooking) are excellent sources of vitamins A and C. Your body needs these vitamins to produce sebum which is the oily substance produced by your hair follicles – this naturally conditions your hair.

Beans – This may be surprising for you but beans like legumes, lentils and kidney beans provide protein to promote hair growth. They’re also ample sources of iron, zinc and biotin.

Poultry – The high-quality protein you receive from chicken and turkey will help give your hair the strength and health it needs. If your diet is low on protein you may experience weak or brittle hair and an extreme deficiency could result in color loss.

Nuts – Brazil nuts are one of the best sources of selenium which is an important mineral for the health of your scalp. Cashews, pecans and almonds are another source of zinc and without a proper amount of zinc, you may experience excessive hair shedding.

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Low-Fat Dairy – Again, low-fat dairy products such as yogurt and skim milk will be packed with the protein needed to give you healthy hair. They’re also filled with calcium, which is an important mineral for hair growth. If you’ve never been a fan of yogurt before, try the Greek version, it tastes more like dessert!

Whole Grains – Using wholegrain bread for your lunch time sandwiches is a great way to get zinc, iron and B vitamins. Wholegrain snacks will also provide you energy when the dreaded afternoon yawns are showing up in heavier rotation.

Eggs – Eggs are the best protein source around and there are a million and one ways to prepare them to your liking! For an added bonus, they also contain biotin and vitamin B12!

Carrots – Carrots are multi-beneficial providing a healthy scalp due to the abundance of vitamin A, and they also promote good vision. It’s a great idea to have these handy to snack on during the day or as toppers for your salad or protein dishes!

 

Eating a balanced well-rounded diet provides so many benefits and beautiful hair is just one of them! We hope this helped!