Healthy hair is a hallmark of natural beauty. If a damaging hair styling regimen has left your tresses less than glorious, dietary changes may be the answer. Add the top foods for luxurious and healthy hair to your diet, and improve hair condition from the inside out.
Green vegetables. Antioxidants like vitamins A and C help protect against the cellular damage of free radicals. Green vegetables such as spinach, kale and green peas are great sources of vitamin A, which is necessary for the formation and maintenance of healthy skin, soft tissues and mucous membranes, according to The New York Times. Vitamin C is plentiful in green peas, broccoli and green pepper and is vital to keeping hair looking healthy. According to the New York Times, vitamin C deficiencies can lead to dry, splitting hair. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron, a vital nutrient found in green vegatables that supports healthy hair. It also helps repair cellular damage and improve scalp circulation and nourishment.
Salmon. A cold-water fish, salmon contains plenty of omega-3 fatty acids, which fight dry scalp and flakes for healthier looking hair. The protein in salmon promotes faster, healthier hair growth. Salmon is also a great source of vitamin B-12 and iron.
Legumes. Beans, lentils and other legumes are packed with hair-enriching zinc and biotin. Biotin is a type of B vitamin that fights brittle, weak hair. Zinc promotes cell and tissue growth, as well as cellular repair of tissues. Zinc also maintains the natural oils needed for shiny healthy hair and may prevent thinning and loss.
Eggs. A super food packed with many nutrients, eggs can be an important part of a healthy hair diet for people who are not fighting high cholesterol. Eggs contain protein, one of the building blocks of good hair. They are also packed with B vitamins, which support hair growth and fight hair thinning.
Carrots. When looking to support healthy hair growth, turn to the beta-carotene-filled carrot to provide your scalp and hair with the antioxidant vitamin A, which is important for optimum hair health.