Healthy eating and a balanced diet not only affect how we feel on the inside, but can also impact how we look on the outside. Certain nutrients and vitamins are great for supporting healthy hair growth and can easily be found in foods without added supplements. We compiled a quick guide of nutrients and foods that promote healthy hair.
Omega 3 Fatty AcidsFatty acids are the “good fats” that are needed for a well balanced diet. Your body does not naturally produce Omega 3 fatty acids, which is why it’s crucial to eat foods rich in this nutrient. An Omega 3 deficiency can lead to dry, tangled hair, dandruff, and hair loss.
Found In: fish (tuna, salmon, oysters, halibut), flaxseed oil, chia seeds, walnuts
Biotin
Biotin is a B-complex vitamin that is an essential nutrient to support cell growth and is well known to promote strong, healthy hair. While it is disputed that high dose biotin supplements actually increase hair growth, normal amounts of the vitamin in your diet are important as a deficiency can lead to hair loss.
Found In: almonds, egg yolks, soybeans, fish, avocado, raspberries, cauliflower, cheddar cheese
Zinc
Zinc is a mineral that your body requires in order to grow hair. A zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, dry scalp, as well as dull hair.
Found In: oysters, legumes, protein (beef and chicken), mushrooms, seaweed, whole grains, bamboo shoots
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is high in antioxidants which reduces the damage from free radicals. Lack of vitamin C can result in dry, thin hair and split ends.Found In: broccoli, brussels sprouts, potatoes, spinach, citrus fruits
Vitamin ESimilarly to vitamin C, vitamin E is high in antioxidants and reduces damage from free radicals. Vitamin E also helps to increase blood circulation, which contributes to faster and healthier hair growth.
Found In: vegetable oils, almonds, sunflower seeds, leafy greens
This is just an overview of some foods and nutrients that promote healthy, strong hair. Following a healthy, well balanced diet will nourish your entire body from the inside out.