Ever wondered why your hair isn’t as thick, shiny or strong as you’d like? While salon hair products and treatments help, what you put on your plate can be just as important as what you put on your hair.
Your hair grows in cycles explains Urs, and for it to stay strong and healthy, your body needs a steady supply of vitamins and minerals. If you’re missing key nutrients, you might notice excessive shedding, slower growth or hair that feels dry and brittle.
Eat the rainbow for healthy hair
Eating a varied diet helps ensure you’re getting a wide range of essential nutrients. Instead of sticking to the same meals every day, mix it up, suggests Urs
When shopping for fruit and veg, aim to ‘eat the rainbow’. Fill your plate with vibrant colours – from beetroot and strawberries to carrots and pineapple.
Fight hair loss with iron
Iron deficiency (anaemia) is a common cause of hair thinning, slow growth and brittle strands. To keep your iron levels up, include lean red meat, green leafy vegetables, dried fruits, pulses and almonds in your diet.
💡 Urs’s pro tip
Your body absorbs iron better when paired with Vitamin C. So, squeeze some fresh lemon over your greens or enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice with your meal.
Healthier hair starts with vitamin C
Vitamin C does more than just help your immune system says Urs. It plays a key role in collagen production, which strengthens hair. Plus, it’s a powerful antioxidant that helps protect your strands from damage caused by free radicals.
Citrus fruits, berries, peppers and leafy greens are all excellent sources of Vitamin C.
Zinc for stronger strands
Zinc is essential for healthy hair growth and can help prevent breakage and shedding. While deficiencies are rare, your body can’t store zinc, so it’s important to include it in your daily diet.
Good sources of zinc include dairy products, meat, pumpkin seeds and nuts.
B vitamins are your hair’s best friend
Vitamins B12 and B7 (biotin) are vital for hair strength and growth. B12 helps deliver oxygen to your hair follicles, while biotin is known for improving hair’s condition and thickness.
For a B-vitamin boost, eat more fish, eggs, poultry, nuts and avocados advises Urs
The building block of beautiful hair
Your hair is made mostly of protein, so if you’re not getting enough in your diet, it can become weak and prone to breakage. A lack of protein can also cause hair to become brittle and more likely to fall out before it reaches its full growth potential.
Excellent sources of protein include fish, lean red meat, poultry, eggs, Greek yoghurt, beans, lentils, nuts and tofu.
Drink up
Just like your skin, your scalp needs hydration to create the perfect environment for hair growth. If you’re not drinking enough water, your hair may become dry and more prone to breakage.
Aim for 1.5 to 2 litres of water a day to keep your hair (and your whole body) happy.
We’re here to help…
Eating well is a great start says Urs but if you’re struggling with hair concerns, your stylist can help.
Whether it’s recommending nourishing treatments or identifying signs of nutritional deficiencies, we’re here to guide you. Next time you’re in the salon, ask us for expert advice on keeping your hair healthy and strong.