7 Superfoods for Healthy Hair

I have had some pretty unfortunate hair situations in my day. From frizz, to chemical processing, to bold highlights and unflattering haircuts, I’ve put my hair through the ringer. Over the past few years I have learned a lot about keeping my hair healthy and growing it to my desired length from said unflattering haircut.

Essentially, products aren’t the end all be all to healthy hair.

Of course different products and care methods can be beneficial for different types of hair. However all hair types benefit from getting proper nutrients through a healthy diet. When I started paying more attention to the quality of foods I was putting in my body instead of looking to supplements for a quick fix, my hair transformed. It has become much stronger, shinier and healthier. Not to mention, I grew out that darn haircut out once and for all.

Below are 7 of my favorite healthy-hair foods to incorporate into your diet for stronger, longer, healthier hair.

1. Salmon (Omega 3 Fatty Acids) – Wild-caught salmon is a nutritional powerhouse. An excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA. In addition to keeping your heart and brain healthy and keeping inflammation at bay, omega-3 fatty acids keep tresses full and shiny. Salmon is also a good source of biotin, a B-complex vitamin that helps strengthen hair and prevent breakage.
2. Avocado – We all know avocados are packed with healthy monounsaturated fats. These fats support the absorption of key nutrients and antioxidants, ensuring hair cells are able to absorb the nutrients they need. Externally, avocados also make great moisturizing hair treatments and conditioners.
3. Sweet Potatoes (Beta Carotene for shine) – Sweet potatoes (along with other orange-hued foods such as carrots and pumpkin) are an excellent source of beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A during digestion. Vitamin A supports scalp health and prevents hair dryness.
4. Eggs – Like salmon, eggs are also a good source of biotin, which keeps hair strong and healthy. Eggs are also a great source of protein, containing the amino acid cysteine which helps promote healthy hair growth.
5. Spinach – You know I had to have some leafy greens on the list too. In addition to being a great source of vitamins A and C, spinach is also a good source of iron and folate. All of this nutritional goodness works together to keep both the hair and scalp healthy.
6. Seeds – We’ve talked about the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids above, and I wanted to mention flax, chia and hemp seeds are all great sources of omega-3’s and protein providing plant-based building blocks for those who don’t include animal products in their diet. The real seedy hair superstar is the pumpkin seed. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of zinc, which can help prevent hair loss. I love making my grain-free granola for a crunch mix of all these delicious seeds.
7. Cinnamon – Warming and slightly sweet, cinnamon is by far my favorite spice. Cinnamon also has anti-inflammatory properties and supports healthy circulation, which helps carry nutrients to the hair follicle.

Bonus: Coconut Oil! I didn’t include this in the main list because I’m not necessarily talking about the benefits of eating coconut oil (although if you’re familiar with my recipes, you know I’m a big fan). For the past 3 years I have been using coconut oil as a deep-conditioning treatment and swear by it for taming frizz and keeping ends healthy. I mix together a simple treatment with coconut oil and a few other ingredients, but the oil works well on its own too.

Simply rub a spoonful of coconut oil along the bottom length of your hair, and tie it up into a bun. Let sit for an hour, or even overnight then wash and condition. I’m also happy to share my hair mask recipe in another post if you’re interested! Let me know 🙂 

• What is your favorite healthy-hair tip?
• Do you have any favorite beauty foods?