Diet and Exercise for Healthy Hair Growth

Friday, 10 July 2009 22:40

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Healthy Hair and Exercise:

Lack of physical activity and poor dieting will without a doubt lead to dry, brittle and lusterless hair. It is no secret that regular exercise and proper nutrition directly influence the hair's integrity and overall appearance. Only a healthy body can have healthy hair. Now this is not to say that you can't use products to achieve the "look" of healthier hair; sure you can, but why pretend when you can transform your tresses by following these simple requirements;

 

  • Diet and exercise are important factors to achieving healthy hair. Exercisizing regularly helps to reduce stress which can contribute to hair loss, and helps to promote circulation to the scalp so that the proper nutrients are being delivered.
  • Keratin,( an insoluable protein) makes up almost 97% of the hair. Therefore, maintaining a diet that is rich in proteins will result in healthy, radiant hair. Proteins will give your hair more strength and will prevent it from breaking and splitting. Eat protein rich foods like fish, meat, milk, cheese and cereals.
  • Drink plenty of water! ¼ of the mass of a strand of hair, is made up of water. 8-10 glasses per day will aid in improvement of overall shine and moisture of the hair.
  • Remember your ABC's! Eat foods that contain the vitamins necessary to grow healthy hair.
  • o Vitamin A promotes a healthy scalp and radiant skin.
  • o Vitamins B and C promote hair growth and color.

10 Foods for Hair:

  • 1. Carrots. Carrots are an excellent source of Vitamin A, which promotes a healthy scalp.
  • 2. Oysters. Oysters contain zinc, (a powerful antioxidant) and have amazing hair-boosting abilities.
  • 3. Low-fat dairy products. Low-fat dairy products are excellent sources of calcium, which is an important mineral for growing hair. May include yogurt, milk, cheese, cottage cheese, etc.
  • 4. Whole Grains. Whole grains can be found in breads, cereals and snacks! They contain a healthy dose of iron, Vitamin B and zinc and will boost your energy when it is low.
  • 5. Eggs. Eggs are naturally rich in Vitamins A, B, D and E; all of which are excellent for healthy hair. Vitamins A, D and E are especially useful to prevent and treat hair loss.Vitamin A increases sebum production which oils and prevents dandruff and thick scalp.
  • 6. Nuts. Nuts contain Omega-3 fatty acids which promote overall hair health. Walnuts, almonds, cashews and pecans make great snacks!
  • 7. Salmon. Like nuts, Salmon is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids as well. It is also a great source of iron and vitamin B-12.
  • 8. Dark green Veggies. Veggies like broccoli, spinach, and asparagus are amazing sources of vitamins A and C. These vitamins aid in the body's production of sebum, which is the body's natural conditioner for the hair.
  • 9. Chicken and Turkey. Poultry is a high-quality protein that also is rich in iron.
  • 10. Rice and Oats. Rice and Oats contain Silica, which helps to prevent baldness, stimulates healthier hair growth and assures beautiful shine, luster and strength.

Remember, what you put into your body comes out through your hair!