The Healthy Hair Diet: 9 Foods For Gorgeous, Shiny Hair
When it comes to getting healthy hair, sometimes it’s best to work from the inside out. In addition to using the right products, you can change the way your hair looks and feels by improving your diet. It’s all about ingesting the right vitamins and minerals your body needs to sustain new hair growth and to strengthen your strands from the inside out.
The best part? Many of these hair superfoods already exist in your pantry. Whether it’s your favorite leafy green or a dash of certain spices, different foods can help give your hair the boost it needs to be a show-stopper. Wondering what you should be reaching for during your next meal? Here are nine superfoods that will help you achieve gorgeous, shiny hair.
1. Chia Seeds
Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids are a must for shiny strands. Chia seeds are not only filled with Omega-3s, but they also include powerful vitamins and minerals such as phosphorous, calcium and protein, which all encourage hair growth and strong strands. These seeds are actually easier to add into your diet than you think. Just sprinkle a spoonful into a glass of milk or breakfast smoothie and stir to mix.
2. Green Tea
Dealing with a dry scalp? A cup of green tea may be just what you need. Green tea contains vitamin A, which can help to stimulate sebum production (your body’s natural oils). By adding green tea to your diet, you can help to soothe a dry scalp and dehydrated ends over time.
3. Lemon
The next time you’re looking to spice up your beverage, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon into the mix. Lemons have a very high concentration of vitamin C, which helps to build collagen. This collagen production is vital in helping your hair to grow as well as helping your body to absorb iron, which strengthens the hair shaft.
4. Walnuts
When it comes to keeping your hair strong, it’s all about turning to foods packed with protein such as walnuts. Protein sources including nuts, seeds, eggs, chicken, fish, steak to name a few keep your hair strong and healthy. Without enough protein, hair can become brittle, dry and weak. Diets too low in protein may even cause hair loss. So, next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to stock up on your favorite nuts and seeds.
5. Whole Grains
Yes, you read that right. Whole grains, like pasta, bread and other delicious carbs, are actually good for your hair. Whole grains are high in Biotin, a B vitamin, which helps prevent hair breakage and increases hair strength and growth. They also contain high amounts of zinc that help to keep a dry scalp and hair loss at bay.
6. Spinach
There is a reason that wellness fanatics obsess over this leafy green—it’s incredible for your hair, skin, and nails. Spinach is filled to the brim with iron which helps to keep your hair strong and healthy. Also, this hair superfood contains vitamins A and C. These are the vitamins that help make your hair grow. So, the next time you’re making your favorite smoothie, be sure to add in a handful of these nutritious greens. Your hair will definitely thank you for it.
7. Tomatoes
These tasty fruits contain the hair growth vitamins A and C, so you know they are going to help make your hair grow!
8. Soy Flour
Love to bake? Next time you’re whipping up tasty pastries or delicious bread consider using soy flour. Soy flour is packed with Biotin. This hair-friendly vitamin is a must for anyone who is looking to improve their hair.
9. Coconut Oil
Honestly, is there anything that coconut oil can’t do? Besides being a staple in the DIY beauty community, it also needs to be a must in your cooking routine. Not only can this oil hold up in high heat, but it’s a great alternative to traditional cooking oils. Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that contain antibacterial and anti-microbial properties. When ingested, these fatty acids can help to improve hair growth.
