A lot of people may relate hair growth solutions to expensive, if not harmful, cosmetic products. But simple changes in diet alone can prevent hair loss. Hair loss can be attributed to a lot of reasons but at the end of the day, everyone suffering from it wants a solution. So, if you are one of those people who do not want to look into a mirror and see a receding hair line then adopting a healthy diet may be the smart initiative. Diet may not seem like the most obvious hair growth solution but in order to understand its effectiveness, you have to understand some of the fundamentals of smooth and shiny hair.
Each hair strand is primarily made of protein, notably keratin. Apart from our hair, our eyes, skin and nails are made up of protein cells as well. So common sense dictates that for healthy hair growth, our diet should be rich in protein
* Protein is important for replacing and producing new cells in our bodies. A lack of protein may result in puffy bags under your eyes, water retention, the compromise of your body’s immune system etc. Every time we consume food rich in protein, our body breaks it down to amino acids. All proteins are different combinations of amino acids. Having an increased intake of protein ensures that our body has a steady supply of keratin which will be delivered via our blood stream to our hair follicles. Follicles have networks of blood vessels that provide the roots of our hair with nutrients and oxygen.
There are many different types of food which are rich in proteins such as fish, eggs and meat. For hair growth purposes, having a lean source of protein is the wiser choice because excessive fat will have adverse effects on your testosterone levels. Low fat yogurts and skimmed milk are some of the examples of dairy products that can be an excellent source of protein.
* Iron is integral for the production of both hemoglobin and myoglobin. Hemoglobin is the substance the carries the oxygen in our red blood cells and myoglobin is another form of hemoglobin that is found in the tissues. Only 10% of ingested iron gets into the blood stream and if there is a deficiency in the oxygen levels reaching your hair, it is only natural that you are going to see hair fall.
Red meat, green leafy vegetables, shellfish, egg yolk, nuts and cereals are excellent sources of iron. However, some food substances such as tannin interfere with the absorption of iron and so it is a good idea to avoid tea or coffee for at least an hour after your meal.
Having a healthy intake of fruits is also advisory since vitamin C helps with the absorption of iron. Vitamin C is abundant in fruits such as oranges, strawberries and lemons.
* Silica: while many of us may not have heard about it before, silica is a mineral found in the Earth’s crust and studies have shown that when it is taken in coalition with iron, it can stop or prevent hair loss. It is absolutely essential for the creation and maintenance of collagen and is also known to enhance our immune system.
Silica can be found in foods such as asparagus, strawberry, cabbage, cucumber, onion, bean sprouts, parsnips and leeks. Silica is also available as a supplement in numerous online stores and pharmacies.
Having a healthy diet can have a positive impact on numerous aspects of your health; not just your hair. The best part is that by maintaining a single well balanced nutritious diet, you can hope to accomplish numerous fitness and health goals.
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