Another dry season beckons. When it arrives, ladies will pay more attention to their hair at huge cost.
“During dry season, hair tends to lose more moisture as long as it is exposed to the sun. Many steps can be taken to protect the hair.
“This includes using fortified shampoo, conditioner and hair cream,” explained Mosun Akhigbe, a hair stylist.
However, Tunde Awolaja, a dietician, insisted that taking care of the hair requires more than hair ‘condiments’.
“You need more than that to achieve better, stronger, shinier, thicker hair from the inside out. The hair benefits from everything you put in your mouth as well,” he said.
He advised that one should look for foods high in lean protein, vitamin A, zinc, iron, omega-3 fatty acids and calcium for the healthiest hair and scalp.
Healthy foods
The power of protein in the hair is commendable thus high quality lean protein is one of the best nutrients for great hair.
“Hair is made of protein. It takes good, healthy sources of protein to make great healthy hair,” Awolaja said.
Chicken, turkey, fish, beans, and eggs are great sources of protein. Beans also contain iron and zinc that promote optimal hair growth and health.
Besides, beans are a good source of biotin which, in cases of a deficiency, could cause brittle hair.
Aside being nature’s super snack, nuts (peanuts and groundnuts) are also great for hair’s health because they are packed with selenium and zinc that boost healthy scalp and also reduce shedding.
Awolaja said low-fat dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese should also feature in the diet of anyone who desires a healthy hair because they are good sources of protein and calcium.
“Above all, don’t ever forget to have green leafy vegetables in your diet, it is a healthy boost for the hair too.”
Besides being full of calcium and iron, vegetables like spinach and salad greens also provide Vitamins A and C which are necessary for sebum production.
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for optimal scalp health which is directly related to a healthy hair. Omega-3 fatty acid can be sourced from walnuts and fish.
