Salmon
Salmon is a well-known super food and is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, as well as protein, Vitamin B12 and iron. Omega-3 is great for building better skin and hair, as well as supporting the health of your scalp. If you’re vegetarian, you can always consume one to two tablespoons of ground flaxseed oil each day.
Dark green vegetables
Spinach, Swiss chard and broccoli are all great examples of iron-rich foods which provide your body with vitamins A and C, something your body needs to produce sebum. Sebum is needed by the body to condition the hair follicles, in order to achieve naturally shiny hair.
Beans
Kidney beans, lentils and other legumes are a great addition to any healthy diet, but they are also perfect for improving the condition of your hair. Beans are a good source of zinc and iron, which studies have studies have shown a lack of can sometimes cause brittle hair.
Nuts
Brazil nuts are a great natural source of selenium, which research has shown is important for maintaining a healthy scalp. Likewise, walnuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids which help to condition the hair follicles.
Poultry
A fantastic source of protein, chicken and turkey is perfect for building muscle mass as well as helping to create luscious flowing locks. It is important to make sure that you are getting enough protein in order to keep the hair strong, as well as maintaining a rich colour.
Eggs
As with poultry, eggs provide the body with protein as well as vitamin B12 – whether you eat them fried, poached or scrambled, eggs are a vital aspect of any healthy diet.
Whole grains
Whole grains can be found in fortified breakfast cereals and wholegrain bread, and can provide your body with zinc, iron and vitamin B12 – not only does your hair benefit, but your energy levels will improve as well.
Oysters
A source of zinc, which is a powerful antioxidant that can boost the condition of your hair – it isn’t necessary for you to get this mineral from oysters though. If you’re vegetarian, you can get the same hair-boosting goodness from chickpeas, whole grains and pumpkin seeds.
Low-fat dairy products
Skimmed milk and yoghurt are both great sources of calcium, which is important for hair growth. Whey and casein are also great protein sources, perfect for building strong hair.
Carrots
Carrots contain vitamin A, which is beneficial to creating a healthy scalp as well as maintaining good vision. A healthy snack as well as brilliant for providing the body with fibre, they can help to build shiny yet strong hair follicles.