Hair Growth Tips Nutrients & Food for Healthy Hair

Curly or straight, blonde or brunette, short or long, men or women… when it comes to hair, many people wonder what they can do to make it longer, thicker, and healthier.

One of the keys to improving hair health is to approach the situation from the inside out. Just like the rest of your organs and tissues, hair requires nutrients. Switching to a healthier diet could make all the difference your hair needs.

While these nutrients, foods, and tips might not lead to immediately long, luscious locks, they are known to promote hair growth. Read on!

Nutrients for Hair Growth

Protein: Since hair is composed of protein, it’s an essential nutrient for strong and healthy hair. Without sufficient protein, hair can become dry, weak, and brittle.

Iron: Insufficient iron (anemia) can be a major cause of hair loss, making iron an important mineral for hair health.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an antioxidant that aids iron absorption in the body.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3s, found in the cells on the scalp, nourish hair follicles. They also keep the scalp hydrated and hair shiny and healthy.

Vitamin A: This vitamin aids in the production of sebum, which is created by the scalp and acts as a natural conditioner, preventing hair from drying out and becoming itchy or breaking off.

Zinc & Selenium: These minerals help regulate hormone levels, supporting healthy hair.

Vitamin E: This antioxidant enhances the support to hair follicles, leading to optimal hair growth.

Biotin: Often referred to as the “beauty vitamin,” Biotin is a B vitamin that promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails.

Vitamin D: Vitamin D promotes normal hair follicle cycles and hair growth.

Folate: Folate (or folic acid, its synthetic form) helps renew cells that aid in hair growth.

Foods to Nourish Hair Growth

Salmon
Vitamin D • Protein • Omega-3 Fatty Acids • Selenium

Yellow Peppers
Folate • Vitamin C • Vitamin E

Sunflower Seeds
Vitamin E • Selenium • Folate

Sweet Potatoes
Vitamin A • Vitamin C

Avocados
EFAs • Folate • Vitamin E

Almonds
Biotin • Vitamin E

Guava
Vitamin C • Folate • Protein

Chia & Flax Seeds
Omega-3 Fatty Acids • Protein • Selenium

Spinach
Vitamin A • Iron • Folate • Vitamin C

Eggs
Omega-3s • Biotin • Protein • Zinc • Iron • Folate

Oysters
Zinc • Protein • Iron • Omega-3s • Calcium • Vitamin C

17 Unique Tips for Hair Growth

1. Massage your scalp to stimulate hair growth.
2. Apply castor oil or coconut oil to your scalp.
3. Wear a shower cap overnight to increase sebum production through heat buildup.
4. Utilize essential oils like peppermint, lavender, or rosemary for hair growth.
5. Apply a cayenne pepper & coconut oil mask to your scalp.
6. Try a maple syrup hair mask for silkier hair.
7. Use apple cider vinegar as a hair rinse.
8. Drink plenty of water to keep your entire body hydrated.
9. Avoid heat tools to prevent breakage; let your hair air dry occasionally.
10. Rub your fingernails together for 5-20 minutes daily. It’s believed that the nerve endings in your nails are connected to your scalp, promoting hair growth.
11. Mix cinnamon with coconut or olive oil and massage it into the scalp. Cinnamon is also believed to lighten hair color.
12. Apply onion juice and/or garlic to your scalp (despite the odor, it’s reputedly effective).
13. Massage aloe vera into your scalp.
14. Switch your cotton pillowcase for a silk one to prevent hair breakage.
15. Instead of consuming eggs, beat one and apply it to your hair and scalp.
16. Massage vodka into your scalp to stimulate follicles.
17. Finally, a unique tip: Hang upside down to increase blood flow to your head and stimulate hair follicles.

Sources

• stylecaster.com/
• bbcgoodfood.com/