Healthy and beautiful hair is the dream of women of every age. Beautiful, shiny and healthy hair not only adds to your beauty but also gives you confidence. Hundreds of hair related products are available over the counter with many companies promising magic overnight. Do you genuinely think it could happen Pak mums? Well the answer to this question is may be temporary or not at all.
The Secret of beautiful hair is not an expensive hair treatment or a fancy shampoo, but the food you eat.
It is rightly said, you are what you eat. Same goes for your hair. Your hair is hungry for the proper food. Nutrients play an integral part in hair growth and good nutrients radiate your skin and hair. A balanced diet containing all essential nutrients especially proteins help hair to grow fast. While unhealthy food option can affect your scalp and result is unhealthy hair and hair loss.
So are you ready Pak Mums? Here is a list of some foods that helps to strengthen your hair and make them shiny.
Egg: Your hair is mainly made up of keratin which is a type of protein. Diet rich in protein can help to enhance hair growth. Eggs contain a lot of proteins and vitamin B12 that penetrates hair follicles and help to nourish and repair the hair. Eggs not only contain vitamin and protein but some important minerals like sulfur, iron and zinc. Iron is very important mineral as it carries oxygen to scalp and iron deficiency is the main cause of hair loss.
Salmon: Scientist all over the world suggest intake of oily fish like salmon twice a week. It contains omega-3 fatty acids that help to maintain oil levels of skin including scalp. Your body cannot make omega 3 fatty acids on its own so salmon is a good option for hydrating scalp. Now the good news is that if you are not a fish lover, you can get omega-3 capsules from any pharmacy. Apart from omega-3 fatty acids, salmon is rich in biotin and proteins that are important for hair growth.
Coriander: Coriander is used in our Pakistani foods. It is an antioxidant that helps to reduce toxic metals inside the body. Toxic metals can hinder the nutrition reaching the scalp. So coriander is an important food that helps in hair thickening.
Cottage cheese: Dairy products are rich in calcium. There is a misconception that calcium has nothing to do with hair loss. Calcium helps in absorption of iron and as mentioned above iron is a leading source of healthy hair. Cottage cheese or paneer as it is known in Pakistan is a rich source of calcium. Regular intake of cheese can enhance hair growth.
Papayas: Papayas contain vitamin A that triggers the production of sebum inside the scalp. Sebum is the oil produced by our scalp that helps to moisturize our hair. Lack of sebum can result in dandruff and ultimately hair loss. Papayas also contain vitamin C which helps in the production of collagen. Collagen is most abundant protein in our body. It helps to strengthen and maintain elasticity of out bones, skin and hair. Collagen production in women body decreases after age of 30. It can lead to dull and damage hair and skin. Foods rich in collagen can help to overcome this issue. Collagen supplements are also available in Pakistan.
Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds contain a large amount of omega 3 fatty acids and are also rich in iron. As mentioned above iron and omega-3 regulate hair growth and enhance moisture of hair. Regular intakes of flaxseeds can improve hair quality.
Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are loaded with healthy carbohydrates and beta carotene. Body converts beta carotene into vitamin A when consumed. Vitamin A regulates sebum production which in turn provides hydration for scalp. Lack of vitamin A can lead to dandruff. A subsequent amount of Vitamin A is required in colder weather to avoid dryness. With protected and replenished hair, your hair will surely grow faster and healthier.
Lentils: Like poultry, lentils are amazing source of proteins. Keratin being an important hair protein can be obtained from lentils. Protein deficiency can lead to slow hair growth and cause hair loss. Lentils also contain important minerals like iron.
Nuts: They contain minerals, vitamins, proteins and some healthy foods. They are important for reducing hair loss and promoting fast hair growth. Regular intake of handful nuts can improve your overall heath including skin and hair.
Spinach: Spinach contains good amount of vitamins E, B, and C, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron and omega 3 fatty acids. As discussed above all these nutrients are vital for healthier and shinier hair.
So Pak mums instead of spending on manufactured products, invest in healthy eating. Include these in your regular diet and see the difference within months. Balanced diet not only helps in beautiful hair and skin but can also improve your overall health.
