Top 7 foods to help ensure a healthy scalp and hair growth
Healthy long hair is a dream for many, regardless of age. But hair strength and growth rate depend on several factors such as overall health, genetics, environmental exposure, and age. Although individuals cannot control all these factors, they can control their nutritional consumption and food habits, which also influence hair health. Read on further to know more about the foods that can help one achieve healthy and strong hair growth.
7 foods to consume for healthy hair
While there are many products to help boost the look of your hair, eating healthy food can add to the nutritional levels of the body. Here are some options one can add to their regular meals to help benefit hair health:
Eggs
Eggs are a rich source of a B vitamin known as biotin, whose deficiency can lead to increased hair loss. Furthermore, eggs provide the body with iron that helps carry oxygen to grow and repair hair cells.
Spinach
Spinach consists of vitamin A, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. These nutrients work together to provide a healthy scalp and hair and avoid hair breakage by keeping the hair follicles moisturized. Additionally, spinach is also rich in iron which aids in hair growth and repair.
Sweet potato
Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. This aids in the protection of dry and dull hair. Moreover, it also encourages the production of sebum (an oily substance produced by the glands in the scalp) to keep the hair moisturized.
Strawberries
Fresh fruits such as strawberries are loaded with vitamin C, which is necessary for the production of protein. It also has tremendous antioxidant properties, aids in the absorption of iron, and fights infections to avoid fungal overgrowth linked to dandruff. In the case of issues like alopecia areata, it can be included in meals as a natural supplement to the treatment.
Salmon
Fishes such as salmons are high in omega-3 fatty acids. This nutrient helps in protection against diseases and even aids in hair growth. In addition, it also keeps the hair healthy, increases its density, and provides it with the needed shine.
Greek yogurt
This food is packed with proteins and has vitamin B5, which helps against hair loss and thinning. Moreover, it encourages blood flow to the scalp and aids hair growth. It also consists of probiotics that have a restorative impact on the hair.
Bell peppers
Red, green, and yellow bell peppers are rich in vitamin C. In addition to the nutrient’s protein production properties, it’s also used to form collagen, a structural fiber. This fiber is needed for the optimal growth of hair follicles and to maintain healthy blood vessels.
In addition to the above, if one is suffering from illnesses and uncontrolled hair loss, a visit to a healthcare expert is suggested. In the case of an autoimmune disease such as alopecia areata, which is linked to uncontrolled hair loss, a few treatment methods can be adopted. This includes the use of photochemotherapy, which is a safe alternative treatment method for patients who do not wish to go for invasive therapies.
