Are you experiencing hair loss and wondering if there’s anything you can do to prevent more from falling out?
As old follicles make way for new ones, a small amount of hair can be expected to fall out daily.
However, excessive hair loss or hair coming out in clumps is cause for a concern.
Here are a few facts about hair loss and what you can do about it, as well as tips for keeping your tresses in tip top shape using the vitamin-packed power of foods for healthy hair.
So, let us start with:
What causes hair loss?
Hair loss can occur due to a number of factors:
- such as poor diet,
- chemical or heat treatments,
- sudden changes in one’s environment,
- medical trauma,
- and genetics.
According to a study done in 2010, alopecia areata is the most common among men and women in their late teen to young adult years.
If you are experiencing hair loss, remember to consult with your doctor to create a strategy that is right for you.
To add TLC to your hair routine in any circumstance, here are 21 foods that can be found in most local grocery stores that may be beneficial to your hair.
1. Onions
This is one to look into if you have non-scarring alopecia.
In a study done in 2002, 23 participants were instructed to apply onion juice to their scalp twice daily for two months.
After two weeks, the first signs of regrowth could be seen.
After four weeks, 17 of the participants experienced hair regrowth.
After six weeks, 20 of the 23 participants had regrown a portion of their hair!
Hair regrowth was more common among men than women (93% compared to 75%), but overall the results were favorable.
2. Avocado oil
Avocado oil is a multi-use skin and hair protect. This vitamin-rich oil is packed with beta-carotene, vitamins E and D, protein, lecithin and fatty acids.
Apply sparsely to the scalp before and after sun exposure, avocado oil may provide some UV coverage while adding skin-soothing moisture.
3. Sunflower seed oil
Image: Unsplash
Sunflower seed oil is high in essential nutrients such as omega-3, omega-6, and tocopherols.
Omega-3, omega-6 are commonly referred as essential fatty acids (vitamin F) and help reduce hair loss.
Tocopherols (vitamin E), is an antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress in the scalp area and promotes hair growth.
Eating sunflower seed oil regularly can reduce the signs of skin aging, which may include wrinkles, dryness, and atrophy (collapse) of the skin. Keeping the skin on your scalp healthy may reduce undue strain on the scalp and hair follicles.
4. Cauliflower
Cauliflower is another hair-healthy vegetable, especially for women in any stage of menopause.
Studies show that certain vitamin deficiencies, such as vitamin C, may result in poor absorption of nutrients.
Also, too much ascorbic acid may lead indirectly to nonscarring alopecia.
Eating cauliflower and other vegetables regularly can help stabilize your vitamin C levels.
This will help prepare your body to absorb more of the essential nutrients your hair needs for healthy growth and development.
5. Almonds
Almonds are a nutrient-dense food.
They play well with other essential nutrients, and they’re known to have wide-ranging anti-aging benefits.
The skin of the almond is particularly helpful in promoting healthy blood flow, which can aid in one’s overall vitality and reduce stress on the scalp that may lead to baldness.
6. Soy and soybean oil
Are you one of the lucky few with super dark, thick hair that grows faster than a weed?
Studies show that the consumption of soy and soy products transforms hair in a number of ways.
It affects the pigmentation, shape and appearance of the hair shaft. This means it can lighten and soften your hair while slowing its growth rate!
However, studies show that soybean oil may actually increase the scalp’s resistance to alopecia.
7. Mushrooms
Image: Unsplash
Another common cause of hair loss is anemia.
High in D2 (Ergocalciferol) and B5 (Pantothenic acid) vitamins, mushrooms are a great way to stabilize your vitamin B intake increasing your energy levels and preventing premature graying of your hair.
8. Peas
Peas are good sources of in vitamin B1 (thiamine) and protein, which can reduce the rate at which hair follicles turn grey or fall out by aiding in the production of healthy, protected skin and hair.
Fresh green peas can be added to a salad or smoothie for added benefit and flavor in any diet.
9. Oysters
Oysters are a zinc-rich food. In-fact they have more zinc than any other foods.
Zinc is important for cell growth and its deficiency weaken cells that lead to hair loss.
This is a reason, zinc is commonly used in anti-dandruff shampoos, and as a therapy for slowing the onset of gray hair as well as hair loss.
It may even combat skin disorders such as Vitiligo, or an uneven blotching of the skin’s pigment, as well as promote mental clarity and focus. Cheers to your health!
10. Red meat
If it is eaten in moderation, red meat is a protein-rich source of energy-promoting nutrients and B vitamins like biotin and B12.
These vitamins are known to aid in the production of red blood cells and increased blood flow to the scalp, which creates a nutrient-rich environment for the hair shaft to build and grow.
11. Cod liver oil
Multiple studies have shown a link between an unbalanced diet and its effects on aging the body.
While not everyone has the time or money to make the most out of every meal, cod liver oil is an amazing supplement to a less-than-ideal diet, which may cause premature hair loss and follicle damage.
It is high in essential fatty acids which the body can’t produce, and they are crucial to optimal health.
If you can overlook the taste, cod liver oil is an all-around awesome health enhancer, especially for your hair and skin!
12. Spinach
Image: Unsplash
Another vitamin C-rich veggie in the lineup is spinach.
Hair loss that is not related to genetics or trauma is often simply due to environmental and biological stress on the body.
High-quality vegetables like spinach are an easy addition to meals like salads, burgers, to get hair-healthy nutrients.
13. Cocoa
Cocoa is having a renaissance in the health world because of its anti-aging benefits and ability to regulate blood pressure, especially in its raw form.
If it is eaten in moderation, pure cocoa, and high-quality cocoa bars can have a healthy influence on your body’s ability to fight stress and disease which may lead to hair loss.
14. White meat
White meat is high-protein, low-fat food options that help your body sustain energy and promote healthy cell regrowth for strong hair.
They are a lighter alternative to red meat.
15. Pulses
Pulses are the dried seeds of legumes, used commonly in international cuisines as a high-flavonoid, low-fat, protein-rich addition to the diet.
They are also high in fiber.
Pulses from legumes such as mung bean are full of essential amino acids along with a whole list of other nutrient compounds that can nourish the scalp and hair shaft.
16. Lemon juice
Lemon juice has long been used as a natural hair lightener, similar to products like Sun-in. However, this can lead to a decline in the condition of your hair.
If you are experiencing hair loss due to excessive dryness, try mixing lemon juice with olive oil and honey for a moisturizing salve.
Apply to the affected area and wash after 15 minutes. Be sure to try a small swatch of the salve on your wrist before applying, especially if you have sensitive skin.
17. Lentils
Lentils are another quality protein sources, which is especially important for any stage of our life.
They’re high in protein and flavonoids.
Flavonoids act as a general barrier in multiple layers of the skin to destroy free radicals and block the effects of harmful UV radiation, both of which can lead to hair loss.
You can easily try them in soups or salads!
18. Sweet potatoes
Along with most bright yellow and orange vegetables, sweet potatoes are another great food to combat free radicals in the body that can lead to premature aging of the skin and hair.
They also protect against UV rays which can damage or alter the condition of your hair.
Try them mashed or baked with some butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar!
19. Cheese
A good quality cheese is a wonderful source of retinol (vitamin A), another nutrient that the body cannot produce and that must come from the diet.
Retinol is a wonderful treat for conditioning the scalp and promoting the lifespan of a hair follicle which can lead to longer and more rapid hair growth.
20. Chia Seeds
These dynamic little seeds are gaining more and more popularity due to their massive nutritional offering and versatility.
They are high in omegas and help the body normalize its lipid and serum levels. When these levels are out of balance, alopecia can occur.
Conversely, when they are balanced, overall hair growth and condition can improve.
They can be eaten dry over salad and cereal, or just toss a sprinkling in before pouring your favorite beverage.
Once exposed to moisture, the seeds ‘crack’ open and tiny follicles emerge, causing them to form a somewhat jelly-like texture. Try it!
21. Collard Greens
Collard greens can be described as a powerhouse when it comes to their nutritious benefits.
Steamed and prepared properly, they can protect against premature aging and factors that may put your body at-risk for chronic diseases.
Disease and undue stress on the body may indirectly lead to sudden hair loss.
Conclusion
Now that you know some of the causes of hair loss, it’s time to arm yourself with one of Mother Nature’s most effective tools– food!
While experts agree that a balanced diet includes lots of fresh, unprocessed meat and produce, it’s important to talk with a trusted dietician before making any dramatic changes to your food routine.
Always do your research and be aware of things like food allergies or vitamin resistance.
Time to start broadening your culinary horizons for better health!
