Healthy Food for a Healthy Scalp and Beautiful Hair

ALTernative
Your hair grows about 1/4 to 1/2 inch every month, and the foundation of all of our new hair, skin, and nail growth is the nutrients we eat. If you eat a healthy diet, you will grow stronger and healthier cells throughout your entire body, inside and out.

If you were born with fine, thin hair, you'll never have rope-thick tresses no matter what you eat. A well-balanced diet that includes plenty of growth-promoting protein and iron can make a difference. Beware of dietary supplements often marketed to thicken hair or make it grow faster, they may backfire. Even though you can find beauty supplements on the shelves of most stores, try to get the nutrients you need from foods whenever possible. In rare instances, excess supplementation of certain nutrients, such as vitamin A, has been linked to hair loss.

Salmon is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, this high-quality protein source is also filled with vitamin B-12 and iron. Essential omega-3 fatty acids are needed to support scalp health. A deficiency can result in a dry scalp and hair, giving it a dull look. If you prefer taking a supplement instead of fish, include one or two tablespoons of ground flaxseed in your daily diet for some plant-based omega-3 fats.

Spinach and broccoli is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, which your body needs to produce sebum. The oily substance, secreted by your hair follicles, is the body's natural hair conditioner. Dark green vegetables also provide iron and calcium.

Legumes like kidney beans and lentils should be an important part of your hair-care diet. Not only do they provide plentiful protein to promote hair growth, but ample iron, zinc, and biotin. Rare biotin deficiencies can result in brittle hair.

A zinc deficiency can lead to hair shedding, so make sure nuts are a regular on your healthy hair menu. You can also get zinc from beef and lamb.

Without adequate protein or with low-quality protein, one can experience weak brittle hair, while a profound protein deficiency can result in loss of hair color. Eggs are one of the best protein sources you can find. They also contain biotin and vitamin B-12, which are important beauty nutrients.

Crash diets can affect the hair cycle. Losing a significant amount of weight in a short amount of time can affect that normal hair rhythm. Two to three months later, you might notice a significant increase in shedding. This is a temporary problem that you recover from with a well-rounded diet.

It's up to you...... You can have the hair you desire just by managing your diet and making a few minor adjustments in your styling process.

WELCOME TO THE EVOLUTION OF HAIR CARE!

Published by ALTernative

"Hair spray is definitely an addiction" proclaims Philadelphia native and salon owner Anika Thompson. As a child, it was amidst blow dryers, curling irons and hair products that she discovered her passion f...  View profile

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