Your Hair and Diet

Many people lose hair for different reasons. Sickness, medication and stress can cause hair loss. Some types of hair loss can be inherited. While there are certainly a number of specific medical treatments; depending on the cause and the extent of the hair loss, experts believe there are a variety of natural treatments that can yield important benefits for anyone concerned about the health of their hair.

Among the first natural lines of defense is eating healthy and a nutritious diet. Research has shown that a diet rich in the following are essential to the growth and maintenance of healthy hair.

Proteins give your hair strength. Hair is composed of protein. A known fact is, a diet which is lacking a sufficient level of protein will result in hair loss or lack of hair growth and possible thinning. It is suggested to follow a diet rich in protein. Sources of protein include: liver, fish, beans, eggs, cottage cheese and yogurt.

A diet rich in Omega-3 is very beneficial to hair. Eat plenty of salmon, an Omega-3 deficiency may result in dry hair and scalp.

A zinc deficiency can may lead to excessive hair shedding, nuts are high in zinc and are also considered protein rich. Cashews, pecans and almonds are all a great source of zinc.

Eat dark green vegetables abundantly. They are considered to be very rich in iron, which is a vehicle which carries oxygen to the hair follicles. Iron is the second most important nutrient for hair (protein being number one). Sources of iron: liver, eggs, dates, raisins, whole grain cereals and salmon (previously mentioned).

Dark green vegetable are also an excellent source of Vitamins A and C. Our bodies require these vitamins to produce sebum, which is the oily substance secreted by our hair follicles.

A diet inclusive of whole wheat and fortified whole grain products provide the body with zinc, iron and B vitamins. Which are essential for proper hair growth.

Remember, your hair is composed also of H2O which is essential to proper hair growth. Drink a minimum of 6-8 glasses of water a day.

PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN BEFORE BEGINNING ANY REGIMEN OF VITAMINS OR MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS

Incorporate foods rich in Biotin into your diet. Biotin is essential for healthy hair, skin and nails. Foods that include biotin are: brown rice, lentils, green peas, oats, sunflower seeds and walnuts.

AVOID THE FOLLOWING:

• Caffeine
• Sugar
• Sodas
• Fatty Foods
• Smoking