Superfoods that are great for your hair

20 April 2017 by
First published: 14 September 2016

If your locks aren’t in tip-top condition, stock up on these superfoods that are great for your hair. Because it’s a sad truth of life that not all of us are destined to have a naturally glossy and bouncy mane like Kate Middleton. Most of us have to work hard for it, and with everyday stresses, unhealthy foods in our diet (come on, admit it) and any chemical additions from styling products, it’s hard to maintain shiny hair.

But you don’t need expensive deep conditioners or a trip to the salon to get your hair in tip-top condition, no matter what the adverts tell you. For lasting results, and an overall healthier head of hair, you need an overhaul of your diet. Most people don’t consider how much of an impact their diets have on their body – from energy levels to the strength of your nails. But the thickness and quality of your hair will certainly be improved by adding these everyday superfoods into your meals. Here is a pick of the most effective but affordable hair rescuers…

Mackerel

Fish is always an obvious choice when it comes to nourishing your hair, but studies show it is by far one of the best out there. Mackerel, although not as synonymous with ‘superfoods’ as salmon, is just as famous for being packed full of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids, which not only hydrate the scalp, but also prevent hair loss and nourish your follicles, giving you that healthy sheen. It’s also high in iron and vitamin B-12, which when taken in generous amounts, makes the hair much less likely to break and glossier. Implementing more fish dishes into your diet will ensure you see results in your locks in the shortest amount of time.

Walnuts

All nuts are known for their health qualities, but walnuts are definitely your go-to for the best hair results. They are incredibly rich in potassium, which encourages hair growth, and omega fatty acids, which strengthen and nourish the roots. Of course, walnuts are very high in calories, so if they don’t fit into your everyday diet, walnut oil works just as well if you apply it to wet hair on a regular basis.

Pumpkin seeds

These little beauties pack a punch with the number of vitamins and minerals they contain. The ones that you should be most interested in for promoting healthy hair is the zinc and vitamin E. Zinc is known for being great at replenishing hair – making it thicker and stronger – and vitamin E helps to reduce inflammation, repair your hair, and protect it against the sun’s rays by acting as a shield over the follicles.

Green tea

Green tea isn’t just great for speeding up your metabolism and aiding digestion, it’s also great for hydrating your hair. The polyphenols in green tea block out DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is one of the key causes of hair loss, while the panthenol conditions your scalp and hair, leaving it thick and shiny. Drink two to three cups of it daily, or brew some and apply to your hair and wash out for a glossier mane.