The Best Foods to Eat for Healthy Hair

The Best Foods to Eat for Healthy Hair
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Healthy hair is about more than just buying the right shampoo. In fact, what you put inside your body can be even more important than the hair treatments you use. A healthy diet will provide you with the nutrients you need to keep your hair strong and shiny. Besides a balanced diet, dietician Keri Glassman recommends drinking plenty of water to keep your body and your hair hydrated.

Fruits and Vegetables

One of the essentials vitamins for strong, healthy hair is vitamin C. According to Holistic Online, vitamin C can improve circulation. Good circulation is essential for the health of the scalp. A healthy scalp means better nutrition and strength for the hair. Citrus fruits are a good source of vitamin C, but many other fruits and vegetables contain at least some. Another nutrients that is good for hair and can be found in vegetables is vitamin E. Foods rich in vitamin E include turnip greens, tomatoes and avocados.

Proteins

Of all types of protein, fatty fish such as salmon is probably the best for hair because it provides your body with omega-3 fatty acids. According to Holistic Online, fatty acids can help prevent brittle hair and repair texture. Protein is essential for hair growth, so make sure you eat plenty of lean proteins such as chicken, turkey and eggs. Ayushveda recommends eating plenty of beans as well. Not only are they rich in protein, but they also contain other nutrients that are essential for hair health, such as biotin and iron.

Carbohydrates

Grains are good sources of biotin, which might help prevent hair loss, according to Dr. Glassman. Wheat germ and oatmeal are especially high in biotin. Vitamin B-6 might help prevent or slow down the growth of grey hair. Excellent sources of B-6 include beans, nuts, potatoes and wheat germ.

References

Article reviewed by Jenna Marie Last updated on: Nov 1, 2010

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