Want healthier hair?
Most people I know, especially women, are obsessed with their hair (I think this includes me, too!)
Come to think of it, when the hair is straight, people want it curled. When it’s wavy, they want it straightened. Even if it’s already straight, some want it straighter. If it’s black, they have it colored some other shade, and when it’s graying, they want it darkened.
And have you seen the gondolas in malls and grocery stores dedicated entirely for hair care products? You’d be amazed at the volume and diversity of the hair products available for everyone. There’s even horse shampoo being marketed for humans just because there is a significant segment of users who want hair as dark as that of the horse’s mane.
If you go to hair salons, you’d be surprised at the number of women (and some men) who go for hair services and treatments; but more surprising is the price people are willing to pay for a hot oil treatment, a rebond, or a cellophane (is this how it is supposed to be spelled?). The amount of money is immaterial as long as the hair looks good and immaculate.
But, do you really want to know the key to healthier and shinier hair? It’s simple: It’s not what you put or apply on them; it’s what you eat that makes them healthy!
Not very many know that the basis of all new skin, hair, and nail growth is the nutrients found in the food people eat. Thus, a healthy diet grows stronger and healthier cells; and healthier cells make healthier hair.
So what comprises a healthy diet for healthier hair? Here are some examples of foods that can do wonders with your hair.
Salmon is rich in Omega 3
Salmon because it’s loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, a high quality protein which is also filled with vitamin B-12 and iron.
Shiny, healthy hair is a product of well-nourished scalp, and the omega 3 found in salmon helps nourish the scalp. Another good source of Omega-3 is flaxseed. Take at least 1 or 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed everyday.
Nuts
Nuts, especially Brazil nuts, are one of nature’s best sources of selenium, an important mineral for healthy scalp.
Nuts are very helpful in growing and maintaining healthy hair. An example of nut is Walnuts which contains alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid that helps condition hair. Other nuts include cashew nuts, almonds, and pecans.
Dark Green Vegetables are best for healthier hair as they are rich in Vitamins A and C. Sebum, the oily substance secreted by the hair follicles, is produced by both Vitamin C and A, and sebum, for those who do not know, is the body’s natural hair conditioner, and it helps keep the hair healthy and shiny.
Beans are a rich source of protein as well as iron, zinc, and biotin, minerals that are essential for healthy hair. Protein is also necessary for hair growth.
So … how about those hair conditioners? How about the shampoos and the hair care treatments in salons? Well, if you have the money to pay for all those, go ahead. But the smartest thing to do is simple: eat healthy and you’ll have healthier hair … PLUS younger looking, clean clear skin!
