The way we eat effects our well being and reflected in the health of our hair. Like the rest of the body, healthy ,shiny hair depends on a good diet to ensure it is supplied with all the necessary nutrients for sustained growth and health.
Poor eating habits and lack of exercise are soon reflected in the state of the hair, even a minor case of ill health will usually make the hair look limp and lack lusture.
An adequate supply of protien in diet is essential. Good sources include:
- Lean meat
- Poultry
- Fish
- Cheese
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Pulses
- Eggs
- Seaweed
- Almonds
- Yogurt
Try to eat at least 3 pieces of fruit a day - it is packed with fibre, vitamins and minerals. Seeds are a rich source of vitamins and minerals as well as protiens. Whole grain foods and those with natural oils are highly recommended for the formation of keratin (A human hair consist mainly of a protien called Keratin. It also contain some moisture and the trace metals and minerals found in rest of the body), the major component of hair. Avoid saturated fat which is found in red meat, fried food and dairy products. Choose skimmed or semi-skimmed milk rather than the full fat varieties, and low fat cheese and yogurt instead of full fat cheese and cream. Substitute vegitable oil such as sunflower, saflower and olive oil for animal fats. These all foods provide nutrients that are essential for healthy hair.
Regular exercise is also important as it promotes good blood circulation, which in turn ensures that vital oxygen and nutrients are transported to the hair root via the blood.
Balance is important to a healthy hair. If you eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh ingredients, you shouldn't need to take any supplementary vitamins to promote healthy hair growth.
