You are what you eat
The 8 Essential Vitamins and Minerals for Great Hair
Is your mane looking a little dry, dull and drab? Well, the old adage, “you are what you eat” holds true! Healthy hair starts from the inside out. Let’s face it; none of us could live without our hair stylists, but a healthy diet could keep your hair looking luscious. Here are 8 essential vitamins and minerals that your hair will thank you for.
1.) Protein– If your hair is a little on the dry side, it may be due to a lack of protein in your diet. Your hair is composed of mostly protein, which means it needs protein to grow. Meat, dairy products, and eggs are excellent sources of protein. If you’re vegetarian, opt for legumes and nuts to pack in the protein.
2.) Iron– Eat your veggies! Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and broccoli are high in iron. Without enough iron, you’re more susceptible to anemia, which is a major cause of hair loss.
3.) Vitamin C –Excessive split ends? This could be caused by a deficiency in vitamin C. This antioxidant also helps in the production of collagen that strengthens the capillaries that supply the hair shafts. Citrus fruits are your go to for vitamin C. Mimosas with a side of O.J anyone?
4.) Omega-3– Nobody’s got time for dandruff! Omega 3 fatty acids help regulate oil levels and prevent your strands from drying out. Foods, such as salmon, avocados, and pumpkin seeds are rich in omega 3’s that prevent your scalp from flaking.
5.) Vitamin A– Itchy scalp? Vitamin A is needed by the body to make sebum, which acts as a natural conditioner for a healthy scalp. Without sebum, we may experience and itchy scalp and dry hair. Foods rich in Vitamin A include carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
6.) Zinc & Selenium– Trying to grow that pixie cut out? These two nutrients help the hair follicle to grow. Lean red meat is great source of iron, while oysters are great sources of zinc. Lentils, soybeans, walnuts, oatmeal, and brown rice are great vegetarian sources.
7.) Vitamin E– Do you love lounging in the sun? Vitamin E provides protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Vitamin E also helps the body’s blood circulation by increasing oxygen uptake, which in turn aids the body in producing new hair. Sunflower seeds, almonds, avocados, and papayas are packed with vitamin E.
8.) Biotin– Hair loss is a real problem and Biotin promotes healthy hair by increasing the hair’s elasticity and protects against dryness and breakage. Peanut butter, bananas, green peas are excellent sources of biotin. Some experts even say biotin can slow down age-relating greying. Bonus!
Supplements are also a great way to manage your way to healthy hair!
