Long, thick and shiny hairs have always been synonymous to attractiveness and beauty.  It not only sets the tone of your appearance but boosts confidence as well.  Beautiful and glossy hairs leave a good impression, and for this reason, many people spend a lot of money on expensive hair care products. But little do they know that healthy hairs start with a healthy diet. The healthier you are on inside, the healthier you appear on outside. Same is true for your hairs.

Here we are with a list of best foods with essential nutrients that promotes healthy hair.

#1.Eggs-

Eggs are an excellent source of protein and biotin, the two most important nutrients that nourish your hair follicles and enhance hair growth.  Hair follicles are made up of protein and adding more protein to your diet curbs hair fall. Eggs contain more than 20 essential nutrients that are vital for hair growth. They are packed with a host of B vitamins such as Vitamin B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin) and B5 (pantothenic acid) that strengthen your hairs and improve their texture as well. In addition, eggs contain selenium, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorous, iron, copper and zinc that contribute to long, thick and shiny hairs.

Biotin, on the other hand, is essential for the production of a hair protein known as ‘Keratin’. This natural protein tames dry, dull hair and smoothens them naturally. Also, eggs prevent the sebum level from going off kilter and maintain good health of your scalp. Consuming eggs regularly as well as applying egg masks to your hairs ensures that they are getting enough nutrition and keeps them in good shape.

#2.Berries-

A good hair diet ideally includes foods that contain a generous amount of Vitamin C. Berries contain high amounts of antioxidants and vitamins that are vital for healthy and shiny locks. Our hair growth mainly depends on two factors- collagen production and iron absorption. Berries are high in Vitamin C which acts as a natural collagen booster and aids in iron absorption as well. Besides, it strengthens hair and prevents breakage. Also, the antioxidants present in these fruits help protect hair follicles from the harmful effects of free radicals present in your body.

Some of the common berries that have amazing effects on hair include strawberries, Indian gooseberry (amla), acai berry, raspberries and many others.

#3. Spinach-

Hair loss is deeply interlinked with iron deficiency. The hair follicles thrive on the supply of iron-rich blood. Spinach makes an excellent plant-based source of iron that is vital for your hair growth. The goodness of this leafy vegetable is not only limited to its high iron content. Besides, it contains folates, vitamins, proteins and other nutrients that maintain good hair health. Spinach contains a generous amount of sebum which acts as a natural conditioner and can make your locks soft, smooth and shiny. Wait! There is some more. This leafy vegetable is loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, Zinc, Selenium and Calcium that make it one of the best foods for healthy hair growth.

#4. Salmon-

Adding fatty fishes like salmons and sardines to your diet is another way to feed your hairs with essential nutrients. These marine animals are chock-full of Omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA that our body doesn’t produce on its own. Apart from this, these fishes contain essential vitamins and proteins that are crucial for hair health. If you are a vegetarian and searching for a plant-based source of Omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds or walnut makes a perfect pick for you.

#5. Sweet Peppers-

Sweet peppers or bell peppers are admired in the culinary world due to their vibrant colors, sweet taste and aroma. They are not only delicious but possess many health inducing properties too. Bell peppers are rich in Vitamin C which is vital for collagen production and helps hair follicles to stay healthy for optimal growth.

#6. Lentils-

Apart from other sources of proteins such as tofu, soybeans, and chickpeas, lentils form an excellent vegetarian substitute for proteins that are required for healthy hair growth. Additionally, vitamin C present in lentils aid in keratin production and boosts hair growth.

Switching on to a healthy diet today mean a head packed with strong and shiny hair within six months to a year, depending on your hair’s ability to grow. We hope you find the information interesting and useful. Thanks for reading!