Who wouldn’t want stronger, healthier and shinier hair? Many jump from one hair product to the next, chasing that illusive level of softness and shine. Don’t ‘brush off’ (pun intended) other lifestyle factors that can lead to poor hair health. Just like skin, a healthy scalp starts from the inside out. Using natural haircare products can make a big difference but ‘feeding’ your hair with the right nutrients makes all the difference. We’ve put together some #ContentApproved tips to give you a head start in your quest for healthier, shiny locks.
A balanced diet filled with plenty of greens, healthy fats and good quality protein greatly benefit the condition of your hair. If you have been under prolonged stress or have not been so diligent with your diet, consider these when getting back on track.
Omega-3
These are crucial for a healthy scalp and hair. Omega 3 provide essential oils to help keep the two hydrated. Our bodies don’t naturally produce Omega 3s, so we must turn to our diet to get our fill.
The beauty is Omega-3 helps oily hair AND dull and lacklustre hair. Omega-3’s help to balance the production of sebum, which is regulated by hormone levels. You’ll find them inside foods including oily fish, grass-fed lamb and beef, walnuts, flaxseeds, avocado, and pumpkin seeds. Incorporate a selection of these in your diet helps balance the condition of your hair and scalp. You can also support your intake with daily supplements such as Minami Nutrition VeganDHA and Wild Nutrition Pure Strength Omega 3. The important thing to remember is that your larger organs will use the Omega 3 oil first. Areas like skin, hair and scalp will be the last to see the benefits, so stick with it for at least three months to see results.
Protein
Don’t underestimate protein for hair health! The hair is made of structural proteins known as keratin. If your hair is breaking or needs a boost, check if you have adjusted the type or quantity of protein in your diet. Eggs are one of our favourite protein sources. You are likely familiar with their long history of being used in make-your-own hair masks. Switching to natural haircare products that contain protein can also help. Rahua use quinoa protein in their natural haircare range. Less is More use wheat proteins in their shampoo and balms. John Masters Organics opt for a mix of wheat and soy proteins.
Zinc
An essential mineral for a healthy scalp. Zinc can help regulate the body’s ability to make new proteins. The proteins in turn become building blocks of healthy hair and nails. Hair dryness and brittleness can be signs of zinc deficiency. If you are suffering from hair loss, it might be worth checking your zinc levels with a naturopath. Natural sources of zinc include oysters, red meat, poultry, shellfish and certain legumes and grains. We like to keep our levels healthy with a daily dose of Wild Nutrition Food-Grown Zinc Plus internally. Topically, we use the John Masters Organics Zinc and Sage Shampoo with Conditioner.
Biotin
Biotin (aka vitamin H or B7) is great for improving the quality of thinning, splitting hair as well as nails. In nature, it can be found in bananas, eggs, beans, cauliflower, lentils, peanuts and salmon. We love the food-state supplement Synergy Co Super B Complex.
Silica
An essential trace element your body needs for healthy hair and skin, silica helps to strengthen your blood vessels. This leads to improved circulation, which can stimulate the blood flow to your scalp and encourage hair, nails and bone growth. As we get older, our levels of silica decline alongside our ability to absorb it. Thankfully it is easy to top up on silica via your diet to get back to a healthy scalp. You’ll find silica in whole grains including oats, rye, millet and barley. Vegetables high in silica include cucumber, artichokes, beetroot, asparagus, celery, tomatoes and more.
Selenium
Functioning as an antioxidant, selenium helps rid your body of the harmful effects of sun and environment exposure. It supports the body’s ability to maintain its proper functions, including hair growth. Brazil nuts are an excellent source of selenium. Other selenium-rich foods include garlic, whole grains and sunflower seeds. Selenium is often found in hair, skin and nails multivitamins such as the Wild Nutrition Food-Grown Skin, Hair and Nails. It also contains zinc and Vitamin C to give a balanced level of hair healthy nutrients.
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CONTENT PHARMACY: Hair, Nail & Skin Food
Further Reading
Scalp Massage and Expert Tips for Healthy Hair
