Thick, shiny, and healthy hair is not just a sign of beauty; it also reflects a person’s overall health. As we age, hair can start to fall out. A lot of factors influence hair growth and thickness. This includes genetics, hormone changes, and lifestyle.
But what can we do to maintain a thick and healthy mane? There are many hair care products you can use that are readily available. But it all starts with a balanced diet. Adding the best foods for promoting hair growth and thickness to your diet can do wonders for your strands.
This article will examine the best foods for increasing hair growth and thickness. Get ready to have healthier and thicker hair with these highly nutritious food choices to add to your everyday meals.
Top 10 Foods for Hair Growth
Eggs
Eggs are the most versatile food on the planet. You can have them boiled, scrambled, fried, and so on. On top of that, they are considered one of the best foods for promoting hair growth and thickness due to several vital nutrients they contain, making them highly beneficial for overall hair health. Here are the top nutrients you can find in eggs that help your hair grow healthy and thick:
- Protein
- Biotin
- Various B vitamins such as B2 (riboflavin), B5 (pantothenic acid), and B12 (cobalamin)
- Omega-3s
- Vitamin D
- Zinc
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish are not just for sumptuous meals but also the best foods for hair growth. These kinds of fish have a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA. These essential lipids strengthen the hair follicles, improving blood flow and reducing irritation. Your hair is less prone to breaking and will grow thick and healthy.
Plus, the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s can help treat scalp problems that can stop hair from growing. If you want strong, thick, healthy hair, include adequate amounts of fatty fish in your meals. Here are some examples of fatty fish you can eat that are good for your hair health:
- Trout
- Salmon
- Herring
- Sardines
- Mackerel
- Swordfish
- Anchovies
- Albacore Tuna
Spinach
Are you craving some leafy greens? Time for spinach. This vegetable is best for hair growth since it has iron, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. So how do these nutrients help you to get thicker hair? Here’s how:
- Iron improves the blood flow so the scalp gets enough nutrients and oxygen.
- Vitamin A helps the body make the natural oil that moisturizes your hair and scalp.
- Vitamin C helps the body make collagen, a protein that improves hair health and prevents breakage.
- Antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and vitamin E, shield the hair follicles from heat and sun damage.
Sweet Potatoes
As for carbohydrates that are good for your hair health, add sweet potatoes to your breakfast routine. You can boil, fry or mash it depending on your preference. Sweet potatoes have the essential nutrients to keep your scalp and hair healthy such as:
- Beta-carotene that our bodies use to produce vitamin A, essential for producing sebum to make our scalps healthy.
- Antioxidants to protect your locks from damaging factors such as the sun and heat styling.
- Vitamin C, which helps our body make collagen to strengthen your strands and prevent it from breaking.
Nuts and Seeds
Now let’s talk about superfoods for snack time. You can’t go wrong with nuts and seeds when it comes to boosting your hair growth journey! You can add almonds to your smoothie. Eat some pumpkin seeds for a quick snack, or add cashews to your cereal.
So let’s look at what these nutritious treats can offer when it comes to growing your hair:
- Biotin to strengthen and prevent brittle hair.
- Zinc for healthy scalp and to prevent hair loss.
- Omega-3s to nourish your hair follicles and maintain your scalp in good shape.
Legumes
Legumes or beans are best for hair growth because they nourish your hair inside out. Lentils, chickpeas, and beans make delicious and hearty meals. So, what’s in these plant-based foods that are good for your scalp and hair? Legumes contain the following:
- Protein to strengthen and repair damaged hair, avoiding split ends.
- Iron for adequate blood flow in the scalp.
- Biotin to avoid thinning hair.
- Zinc for healthy hair follicles.
Avocado
Avocados have become a huge hit lately. These creamy green fruits can be a fancy addition to a regular meal, from avocado toast, guacamole to smoothies. Here’s what they can offer to improve the health and thickness of your hair:
- Monounsaturated fats to nourish the scalp and keep the hair hydrated, reducing dryness and breakage.
- Vitamin E to promote blood circulation to the scalp for healthier hair follicles.
Berries
Do you love berries? You’re on the right track. You can munch on some blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries to boost the growth of your strands. Berries are always best for smoothies or an addition to your salad.
Take a look at what berries can do to your hair and scalp:
- Vitamin C for collagen formation to build and grow your hair strands.
- Antioxidants to protect your locks from free radical damage.
- Vitamins A and E to nourish scalp for healthy hair development.
Lean Meats
Protein is a vital component in repairing hair damage and promoting hair growth. What’s a better source of protein than lean meats? Chicken, turkey, and lean beef are protein-rich and good for your locks.
Also, lean meats are high in iron which promotes blood circulation. Proper blood flow to the scalp ensures the hair follicles get enough oxygen and minerals to boost hair growth. So start grilling your favorite meat now for healthier and thicker hair!
Citrus Fruits
To absorb iron properly, essential for healthy blood flow to the scalp, we need vitamin C. Citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, so stock up on oranges, lemons, and grapefruits.
Vitamin C is also vital for collagen promotion. As we know, collagen makes the strands strong and less prone to breakage. Also, the antioxidants in citrus fruits can protect your hair from harsh elements that can make it dry and brittle.
Tips to Maintain Thick and Healthy Hair
Finally, you have a list of foods that are packed with vitamins and minerals to help you in your hair growth journey. Aside from making sure you have a balanced and nutritious diet, you can maintain the health and thickness of your hair with some quick and easy tips. Here’s a few steps you can do to retain those gorgeous locks:
- Avoid excessive heat styling.
- Drink plenty of water regularly.
- Get regular trims to get rid of split ends.
- Try stress-reduction practices like meditation or yoga.
- Use shampoos without harsh ingredients such as sulfates.
- Avoid wearing tight hairstyles and handle damp hair gently.
- Protect your hair from sun damage by wearing caps and bandanas.
- Incorporate natural scalp scrub and daily scalp massages to enhance blood circulation, stimulate hair follicles, and effectively exfoliate and unclog follicles, promoting hair growth. This dual-action approach promotes a healthier scalp and stronger, more vibrant hair.
Conclusion
As they say, you are what you eat. Eating nutritious food is not just good for your scalp and hair but for your overall health as well. From meats, fish, fruits, and vegetables, many superfoods can contribute to thick and healthy locks. Together with a proper hair care routine, a balanced diet can help you achieve the strong and thick mane that you desire.
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