Whether you are a man or a woman, pulling out a handful of hair in the shower can be disheartening. While some accept hair loss as something inevitable or no big deal, still there are many who want to do what they can to fight it every step of the way. Much of hair loss is hereditary. If you’re seeing the receding hairline of male pattern baldness, genetics are probably to blame. Stress also plays a big role in hair loss, as do medical conditions such as thyroid disorders and diabetes.
Drug stores are filled with pills, shampoos, creams, and lotions all designed to promote hair growth and slow down the process of losing hair. But it turns out many people can keep their hair healthier for longer just by eating the right foods.
Protein, iron, zinc, Vitamin A ,B Vitamins such as Biotin and Pantothenic Acid, Vitamin C, and Omega-3 fatty acids are all nutrients that will help keep hair strong. While taking supplements or using hair care products that contain these nutrients may help, actually getting enough of these nutrients in the food you eat is preferable.
For the most part, eating foods for healthy hair will also help your overall wellness as these foods are packed with nutrition, and you will likely see improvements both inside and out. Here are just some of the Super foods to add to your plate that can help you show off your tresses for longer.
Eggs
While some people fear eating eggs because of the cholesterol, eating an occasional egg or two for breakfast, without the bacon, sausage, and fried potatoes, can actually do more good than harm. Not only do eggs contain a good deal of protein, they also contain both zinc and iron. Iron deficiency is one of the more prominent causes of hair loss in women because without it oxygen does not get to hair follicles the way that it should.
Walnuts
When it comes to omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts are champions. They also contain the B vitamin biotin that can prevent hair loss. They also contain Vitamin E that can stop cell damage, and if you are still holding onto your natural hair color (or want to) the copper in walnuts can help you get the most out of the color.
Spinach and Kale
Adding more green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale to your diet is a good idea all around. These vegetables are a great source of iron, beta carotene (which converts to vitamin A in the body, and vitamin C that will help with overall follicle health and circulation.
Salmon and Oysters
Fatty seafood, such as salmon and oysters are rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Three percent of the hair shaft includes omega 3s. They also both rich in protein, and oysters also are filled with zinc. Zinc deficiencies have been linked to hair loss, and can even cause the loss of eyelashes.
Poultry
Hair is made mostly from protein, and poultry such as chicken, turkey, and duck are full of it. As a bonus, these birds also contain B vitamins, zinc and iron. The combination of all these will help you grow strong hair and keep it.
Greek Yogurt
While yogurt is generally healthy anyway, choosing Greek yogurt can give you that much more hair building protein. Many people who don’t eat meat include more Greek yogurt into their diet because it contains twice the protein of regular yogurt. It also contains the B vitamin pantothenic acid which can help improve protein absorption.
Beans and Lentils
Those who have trouble with dairy products, and even those who do not, will find that beans and lentils are excellent foods for healthy hair. Not only are beans, lentils, and legumes high in protein and low in fat, they are also filled with zinc, iron, and biotin. They are a great addition to soups, chili and salads, and make an excellent staple food for vegans and other vegetarians who want great looking hair that lasts.
Blueberries
Blueberries may not be a protein gold mine, but they are very rich in vitamin C. When it comes to overall scalp and follicle health, vitamin C is key as it promotes good circulation. Those who do not get enough vitamin C are more likely to experience hair breakage.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes also contain vitamin C, but it’s with another anti-oxidant, beta carotene where they are true superstars. Beta Carotene converts to Vitamin A and is essential for cell health. Those who do not get enough vitamin A often struggle with a dry, itchy scalp, or dandruff. Having enough of the nutrient will assure that enough scalp oils are created to keep your scalp healthy.
About the author: Adam writes for Great Hair OK, specializing in NeoGraft hair transplant.
