Did you know that what you eat has a direct impact on your hair growth? While genetics do play a role in hair loss and thinning, diet is also an important factor. In fact, certain foods are better for promoting healthy hair than others. If you’re looking to improve your hair health, consider adding these six best foods for hair growth to your diet.
1. Salmon
Salmon is one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for promoting hair growth. Omega-3s can improve blood flow to the scalp, providing essential nutrients that are needed for healthy hair growth. In addition, salmon is also a good source of protein, another important component when it comes to hair maintenance and growth.
2. Nuts
Nuts are packed with protein, zinc, vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids (just like salmon!). Iron is another mineral that should be included in your daily intake – it can help reduce hair loss and make sure your body uses protein properly. Raw nuts such as almonds, walnuts and flax seeds are best for hair since they are high in zinc, vitamin E and omega-3.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes might not be the first food that come to mind when you think about healthy eating, but these red fruits are loaded with vitamin C, iron and potassium. Vitamin C is best known for its antioxidant properties which can help fight free radicals and repair damaged hair. Potassium can stimulate hair growth while iron can ensure your scalp gets the oxygen it needs for a healthy follicle.
4. Spinach
Spinach is a great source of vitamin A, which promotes hair growth by keeping your scalp and follicles clear from bacteria that might otherwise interrupt the process. Vitamin A can also help improve the production of melanin, a chemical that gives your hair its pigment. You can easily incorporate spinach into your diet by adding it to salads or smoothies.
5. Cauliflower
Although best known for being healthy carbs, cauliflowers are also full of vitamin C and potassium – two essential nutrients for healthy hair growth. Vitamin C is best known for its antioxidant properties, while potassium can help stimulate hair growth.
6. Carrots
Carrots are one of the best foods for hair growth. They are high in beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for healthy hair growth. Carrots are also a good source of other vitamins and minerals that are important for hair health, including vitamin C, potassium, and magnesium.
Carrots are best eaten raw. If your hair is very dry and damaged, you can grate raw carrots in a salad instead of using lettuce (the usual way). Or, try grated carrot in your freshly-squeezed fruit juice.
Conclusion
In addition to these best foods for hair growth, healthy protein intake should also be emphasized when looking to improve your hair health. Lean proteins such as fish and vegetables are best since they have low fat content – any excess fat can alter the balance of hormones in the body which might interfere with hair growth. Finally, make sure you drink enough water to keep your scalp healthy and moisturized!
