There is no doubt that what we’re born with – our genes – have an outsized role in determining whether we will spend our lives with a full head of hair or struggling with hair loss. There are nearly 300 genetic ties to hair loss, according to a recent study. But what we put in our bodies after we’re born – what we eat and what we drink – also impacts the health, resiliency, and continued growth of our hair.
You can help boost hair growth, as well as improve your overall health and well-being, with a healthy and balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and nutrients. Whether in conjunction with hair restoration treatments or simply as part of a healthy lifestyle, incorporating a wide range of readily available hair growth-promoting foods into your grocery shopping will lead is a great way to instantly create positive change in your life.
So, fill up your cart with these nine hair-positive foods:
- Nuts. As you may remember from high school biology, proteins and their amino acids are the “building blocks” of the body. This includes your hair follicles. A diet rich in protein from various sources can be the key to strong and robust hair. Few foods are as high in protein as nuts and legumes, including walnuts, almonds, and cashews.
- Eggs. Eggs are protein-rich, but they also have biotin, which helps produce a protein called keratin that is essential for healthy hair.
- Salmon and other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids hydrate the scalp and stimulate follicle function while also enriching strands for a shinier glow. Salmon, trout, and sardines are great resources for boosting your omega-3 intake.
- Spinach and other leafy greens. Iron deficiency is one of the leading causes of dietary-related hair loss. A lack of sufficient iron restricts proper blood flow – depriving follicles of growth-stimulating nutrients. Iron-rich foods such as spinach, broccoli, kale, and other leafy greens can up your iron intake and help feed your hair. Spinach also contains antioxidants, vitamins B, C and E, calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which can assist with hair and scalp health.
- Grapefruit. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron into the bloodstream. You can foster hair growth by eating these two hair-boosting nutrients together. Additionally, along with its collagen-boosting properties, the antioxidants found in vitamin C keep skin, hair, and nails nourished. Grapefruits and other fruits such as oranges, strawberries, and blueberries, contain high levels of Vitamin C necessary for hair growth.
- Lentils. Not only are lentils an excellent protein source, they also contain ample amounts of iron, zinc, and biotin, which promote scalp health and strengthen hair.
- Avocados. That famous guacamole you make contains a tasty mix of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B and E that help protect and strengthen hair. Vitamin B is vital for hair growth, while vitamin E protects your skin and hair from environmental pollutants and sun damage.
- Sunflower seeds. This healthy snack or salad topping contains a grab bag of hair-supporting nutrients such as protein, zinc, selenium, biotin, potassium, copper, iron, B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium and calcium.
Schedule an Appointment for a Hair Loss Evaluation Today
Of course, changes in diet alone may not be enough to stop hair loss. At the Miami Hair & Skin Institute, our world-renowned hair restoration physicians diagnose and treat hair loss cases that can’t be reversed at home. Through advanced hair restoration surgery techniques and alternative non-invasive treatments, we can help patients suffering from hair loss.
To receive a personalized hair loss evaluation and proposed treatment plan, contact us online or call our office directly at 305-925-0222.