The Hair Diet

Shiny, healthy hair is a reflection of a healthy body. Just like your body, your hair needs a balanced, nutritious diet. Follow this recipe for healthier hair, and you'll be amazed at the difference it will make.

WATER
Water makes up one-fourth of the weight of a strand of hair and makes the hair supple. A key point is NOT to wait until you're thirsty. If you're thirsty, it means your body has already lost more water than it should have, and it's urging you to fill up your tank. Water not only hydrates your body, but helps keep your hair silky and shiny.

PROTEIN
Protein is the building block of hair, so for healthy-looking hair, you need to include a lot of protein in your diet. Protein will give the shaft more strength, and will reduce the likelihood of damage like snapping and splitting. You can get protein from foods like fish, meat, milk, cheese and cereals.

MINERALS
Iron helps carry oxygen to the hair and without it the follicles would die. This means that the goodness found in the root of your hair is much less effective along the length of the strand. You can increase your iron intake by eating red meat and dark green vegetables, or by taking iron supplements.

Zinc builds hair protein, which helps to prevent hair loss. Meat and seafood are the foods highest in zinc. Also, Copper affects the pigmentation of your hair and enhances your natural colour. Shellfish, liver, fresh vegetables, nuts, seeds and meat are all high in copper.

VITAMINS
Vitamin A is great for your skin, but it will also help keep your scalp healthy. You can get vitamin A from vegetables like carrots. Vitamin B and C are important for good circulation, hair growth and hair colour. If you ensure that you have enough vitamin B and C, you'll have strong, supple strands of hair that won't split. You can get these vitamins from eating foods like fruit, vegetables, cereals, eggs, milk and bread.

Author: Marios Atzemoglou