When we talk about shiny hair, usually we only think of some beauty products. The truth is, what we eat can actually contribute to it! A natural way to take care of our hair is by eating the right foods. By reducing our intake of fried foods and junk foods, and increasing our consumption of healthy foods that contain essential nutrients and vitamins, we can have healthy and shiny hair. Here are some foods to add to your diet.
1. Salmon
Essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, help promote healthy and shiny hair. Omega-3 fatty acids keep the scalp hydrated and healthy and thus allow for the growth and shine of hair. Fatty fish like salmon and tuna are good sources of fatty acids. Have some of them every day for healthier, shinier hair. Besides omega-3, salmon also contains protein and vitamin D, both of which are essential for growing healthy hair.
2. Walnuts
Having salmon day after day can get boring. Plus, it’s time-consuming to cook. But a quick snack of almonds or walnuts can provide your daily dose of fatty acids and continue to provide nutrients for shiny hair.
3. Bananas
Some other foods that promote healthy hair are bananas, as they have a large amount of vitamin B-6 which helps regulate our hormones and reduce stress. Some other foods that contain this vitamin also include potatoes and spinach.
4. Meat
Meat, poultry and dairy products all contain vitamin B-12, which is equally effective for healthy hair. Apart from the vitamins, lean meat, eggs and soy products also contain proteins that keep your hair healthy.
5. Lentils
Try eating lentils for the health of your hair. These legumes contain proteins and iron, which in turn give body and shine to your hair. Oats are also good for your hair as they are rich in silica and will cause your hair to be strong, thick and shiny.
6. Avocados
Considered a superfood for healthy hair, avocados contain antioxidants, fibers, potassium and magnesium, all which greatly contribute to hair health.
7. Berries
Blueberries and strawberries contain vitamin C, which helps produce collagen. This element leads to the strengthening of the hair shafts, which ultimately leads to healthy and shiny hair.
8. Pumpkins
Pumpkins contain vitamin A, which produces sebum. Sebum acts as a natural conditioner and promotes a healthy scalp and shiny hair.
9. Yogurt
Eat three servings per day of probiotic-rich foods and drinks like yogurt with live active cultures and kefir if you want shiny hair. You can also include miso paste (found in miso soup) in this category.
10. Seaweed
An unusual food for getting shiny, healthy hair is seaweed. Seaweed may not sound delicious, but it’s highly nutritious. Sea veggies like nori and wakame are filled with iron, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids – essential vitamins that can help you attain shiny hair.
11. Greens
Green, leafy vegetables are good for your body and your hair. Green leafy veggies contain high-quality and easily assimilated amino acids, a wide variety of minerals, along with beauty-building vitamins A, C, E, and K. They all are conducive to shiny hair. Try loading up on greens by tossing them into your wraps, soups, or any dish you happen to be eating. Spinach, chard, kale and arugula are good sources.
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, meat, seafood – the list of foods for hair health is endless. It may be overwhelming to remember what to eat to get the essential vitamins and nutrients for shiny, healthy, and beautiful hair. The trick is to take it one day at a time. Add more and more foods each day, and soon you’ll be showing off a healthy and shiny head of hair.
