Yes, we have all heard this expression before and no it doesn’t mean that you’re a big turkey (If that were the case then that would mean I would be a big Whoopie Pie). All kidding aside, among all of the questions thrown at me in a day, one of the most popular ones that I’m asked at the salon is: “What foods/vitamins are best for healthy hair?” As for any part of the body, a diet rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants and minerals is key for optimum hair and skin health. Keeping hydrated plays a major part in flushing out toxins and in carrying nutrients throughout your system. So, to keep your limited and precious internet perusing time for checking your Twitter feed and not for researching nutrition, I have gladly compiled a pretty straightforward reference list of some of these nutrients to keep in mind:
Essential Fatty Acids
Omega 3 and Omega 6
- Our bodies cannot manufacture them and must be obtained from foods.
- Helps retain moisture in skin and hair.
- Best found in vegetable oils, seeds and nuts.
Antioxidants
Vitamin A
- Maintains structural integrity of cells and mucus linings.
- Aids in controlling acne by reducing the production of sebum (oil).
- Generates healthy hair.
- Found in yellow and orange fruits and vegetables.
- Eat your dark, leafy green vegetables.
- Fish liver oil is another good source of Vitamin A.
Vitamin C
- Produces and maintains healthy collagen (great for fighting wrinkles).
- As we all know, there is plenty of Vitamin C in citrus fruits.
- Some lesser know sources are red or green peppers and broccoli.
Zinc
- Works with Vitamin C to produce collagen.
- Supports the tissue rebuilding actions of Vitamin A.
- Found in hair so maintaining it is important to hair health.
- Sorry vegetarians but red meat is an excellent source.
- But pecans, pumpkin seeds and whole wheat flour are good as well.
Vitamin E
- Helps the body retain moisture.
- Prevents sun damage.
- The cell protection qualities help fight against tissue degeneration and pre-mature aging.
- It is hard to find the therapeutic amounts in food, so a supplement is needed.
Of course proper at-home care and regular visits to us for trims and conditioning treatment are the best way to maintain the cosmetic care of hair. So I guess I’ll be seeing you right after that nice healthy lunch.
