Foods for healthy hair and scalp

Every individual craves for healthy and better looking hair, luscious locks, that won't diminish with age. Hence, be careful of what you eat, as the nutrients you consume are essential to fortify follicles, each strand of your hair and your scalp. Today, Priya Kathpal - Nutritionist, shares a list of super foods, to bring in bounce and luster back to your hair. If you want to get rid of dull, dry, or greasy hair, then pile up your plate with these foods and see the difference. Presenting 10 best foods for healthy hair and scalp.

Healthy hair food # 1: Salmon

The key ingredients for a healthy hair and scalp are protein and vitamin D. Salmon is a great source of protein, vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. This omega-3 fatty acid is very much essential to keep your scalp and hair shaft very well hydrated. As healthy hair starts with a healthy scalp, get in more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.

Healthy hair food # 2: Beef

Dr. Sandeep Suttar - Hair Restoration and Skin Rejuvenation surgeon at HairRevive, Mumbai, says: "If you don't have cholesterol problems, then you must consume this meat at least twice a day. This food has all the possible nutrients that your hair needs for its up keep. The presence of protein, vitamin B, iron, zinc and other vital minerals will help to maintain the health of your scalp and hair." Lastly, Dr. Sandeep says, "Though it is rich in nutrients, the consumption of beef should be minimum to avoid other health problems."

Healthy hair food # 3: Prunes

Including prunes in your diet can help to improve your hair texture as well as proper bowl movements. As it is rich in iron, it helps prevent hair loss, dull hair, thin hair, and discoloration of your hair.

Healthy hair food # 4: Green tea

The presence of polyphenols helps in keeping your scalp healthy. If your scalp is healthy, then the overall health of your hair improves, as it helps to keep your hair shiny and dandruff free. Dr. Sandeep shares a quick fix to treat your dandruff problem with this miraculous tea. Washing your hair with green tea or applying it on your scalp will help to kill your dandruff worries.

Healthy hair food# 5: Carrots

Carrots not only help to sharpen your vision but also to maintain the health of your hair due to the presence of vitamin A. Existence of vitamin A helps in formation of sebum oil in the scalp - says Dr. Sandeep. Sebum is a very important element which helps to keep the scalp and hair very well moisturized. A moisturized scalp means healthy hair.

Healthy hair food # 6: Eggs

Eggs are rich in biotin and vitamin B. These two nutrients are very important for the health and maintenance of your hair. Biotin is a star element, which helps to keep your hair shiny and lustrous. Biotin is also present in many shampoos and conditioners and is one of the important elements needed for hair health.

Healthy hair food # 7: Dark green leafy vegetables

Include lots of dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli and lettuces in your diet. All these dark green leafy vegetables are an excellent source of vitamin A and Vitamin C. Both these vitamins help in the formation of sebum, which is a natural hair conditioner and hence moisturizes your skin and scalp.

Healthy hair food # 8: Brown rice

Brown rice has some protein, vitamins and fiber. Besides giving you healthy hair and scalp, it also keeps you from over eating as it keeps you full for a longer time. Hence, switch to brown rice now to maintain your hair as well as your body.

Healthy hair food # 9: Oysters

Hair loss or dandruff is due to low level of hormone androgen production. Include oysters in your diet as they are rich in zinc, which further helps in the production of androgen and hence fights against hair fall and dandruff. Besides, it also helps your locks retain shine and health.

Healthy hair food # 10: Walnuts

Walnuts are one of the best nuts for your hair nourishment and maintenance. As they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, vitamin E and copper they protect your hair against damage from the sun by being a shield when you venture out; they also prevent hair loss and help keep your hair lustrous and rich in color.