Healthy Hair Diet Revealed

By Tara Hari

A balanced diet is indispensable for healthy, vibrant hair. Your hair is no different from the other parts of your body. If you eat oily or fried foods, you will break out, your complexion will be ruined and your waistline will expand.

Similarly, if you regularly eat a diet consisting of only unhealthy foods, your hair and scalp will be damaged. Since we all crave a thick, luxurious mane of hair, we have to closely pay attention to our diet. The nutrients we consume daily are vital for fortifying each hair follicle.

Here we have revealed some healthy hair diet tips to help you get the healthy hair you always wanted.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Our bodies do not produce omega-3 fatty acids, but they are essential for the proper functioning of the body. These nutrients promote a healthy scalp. If you do not consume adequate amounts of this nutrient, the natural oil produced by the scalp will be affected. This results in hair loss and breakage. Salmon, olive oil and cabbage are a few sources rich in omega-3 fatty acids.

Protein

Protein

The hair follicles are mainly composed of protein. Deficiency in this nutrient will result in dull, lifeless hair with stunted growth. Proteins are found in lean mats, eggs and organic poultry.

Water

Water

Water is recommended not only for your skin, but also your hair. If you neglect to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, you will suffer from brittle hair and dry scalp. So drink your daily dose of water to ensure moisturized, shiny locks.

Iron

Iron

Depletion of iron stores in the body is a main cause of hair loss. A large amount of the body's iron is lost during menstruation, so women have to take special care to eat foods rich in iron. Red meat, green vegetables and egg yolk are excellent sources of iron.

Vitamins

Vitamins

Scalp ailments like dandruff or buildup will be a result of vitamin deficiency. Sebum, the oil that coats the scalp and hair follicles, are made of Vitamin C and A. Deficiency of vitamin C in the diet will lead to loss of luster and damaged hair. Fresh fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of vitamin C, while carrots, mangoes and sweet potatoes provide Vitamin A. Vitamin B deficiency causes hair loss which can be remedied by incorporating whole grains, beans and bananas into your regular diet.

Healthy Fat

Healthy Fat

Healthy fats are essential for promoting hair growth. They also moisturize the hair follicles for long, thick, shiny hair. Nuts are rich in healthy fats, so incorporating them into your regular diet will promote health of your hair. Some examples are flaxseeds, walnuts and brazil nuts.

Zinc

Zinc

Zinc provides nourishment to the hair to promote its growth and maintenance. Deficiency in zinc will cause the breakdown of scalp tissue, leading to damaged, unhealthy hair. This can be avoided by incorporating kale, spinach and seafood into your diet.

Story first published: Monday, June 17, 2013, 18:16 [IST]
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