How’s my hair? I’m sure I’ve asked that question thousands of times in my life, and I must have spent years actually doing it. I just feel that when my hair looks good, I feel good. Sounds silly, but think about how you feel when you’re having a bad hair day.
Healthy hair is beautiful hair! Like the rest of the body, your hair needs the right vitamins and minerals to be healthy and strong. There are hundreds of products you can buy that promise shinier, thicker, fuller hair, but you might be able to get similar results by adding some key nutrients to your diet. Here’s a list of nutrients to include in your diet to help you have, and keep, beautiful hair!
- Biotin – This is the nutrient that most people associate with healthy hair. Biotin is needed for the production of keratin and may help prevent graying and hair loss. Try eating whole eggs and citrus fruits to increase your biotin levels.
- Zinc – Another nutrient that may help prevent hair loss. Many people don’t get the recommended amount of zinc in their diet. Try beef, lamb or whole grains. Pair them with foods high in vitamin C like the citrus fruits listed above to increase absorption. You can also get zinc from a multivitamin.
- Protein – Protein is important because it’s the main component of hair. The best sources are fish, chicken, meat, eggs and nuts.
- Essential Fatty Acids – These are the good fats such as omega 3’s. These fats can help hair stay shiny and healthy. Samantha Heller, a dietitian at NYU believes that there are many people who lack omega 3’s in their diet, which can affect their hair health. Great sources of essential fatty acids include plant oils like olive and canola oil, walnuts, almonds and flaxseed.
- B Vitamins – These can sometimes help delay hair loss. Dermatologist and hair loss expert, Ted Daly, MD states that he sees many women with B12 deficiencies who come to his office seeking help with hair loss. Try some beans, lentils or whole grains to get more B vitamins in your diet.
These are the nutrients I try to include daily to help my hair look and feel healthy. All should be part of a healthy and balance diet. Try these foods yourself before your hairdo becomes a hair don’t!
- Jennifer
Labels: Health, healthy eating, Jennifer, vitamins
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