7 Foods to Grow Thicker and Lustrous Hair

A common problem in the pandemic has been severe hair loss. And if this strikes a chord with you, then by now you would have diligently searched the internet for effective ways for hair growth. However, all that information on the net can be confusing. Though there are several treatments available for hair loss, you can begin by changing your diet. Yes, according to experts what you eat can affect the health of your hair and scalp. Dr Deepali Bhardwaj, dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon, the founder of Skin and Hair Clinics says, “Though there are many reasons for hair loss, the major one right now is due to the pandemic-induced stress and anxiety. This combined with the lack of proper diet and hair hygiene leads to hair fall.” She suggests little tweaks in your diet that can nourish your hair from the inside and accelerate hair growth. However, she cautions that Indian cooking methods destroy the nutrients in natural foods. She advises you either grill or bake the vegetables or eat them boiled for maximum benefits.

Almonds

These nuts come packed with several vitamins, protein and healthy fats that are good for your hair. It’s the high concentration of Vitamin E in almonds that researchers have linked to thick and lustrous hair. According to a research published in the journal Tropical Life Sciences Research, participants who consumed 100mg of vitamin E daily, saw an increase in hair growth by 34%.

Curd

“As most of us are confined at home, it’s essential to ensure that our body gets enough Vitamin D. Curd or yoghurt is a good source of the vitamin. Include it in your daily diet,” says Dr Deepali. Curd also contains Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) that helps main lustrous hair and glowing skin.

Lentils

“To boost hair growth, you need to add Biotin which is Vitamin H in your diet. The vitamin is abundantly found in lentils,” says Dr Deepali. The folic acid found in lentils, helps your body make red blood cells that carry oxygen to your scalp. 

Green Tea

Oxidative stress has been linked to hair fall. To combat oxidative stress you need to pack antioxidants into your diet. Green tea is a powerhouse of antioxidants and is good for hair, skin and your weight goals too.

Carrots

If you have dry and brittle hair, then include orange-coloured fruits and vegetables like carrots, pumpkins and oranges in your diet. They contain Vitamin A  which stimulates the scalp to produce sebum to counter dry hair.

Spinach

Mineral deficiencies can also cause hair loss, especially iron deficiency. Eat a balanced and nutritious meal to meet your nutrient requirements. Spinach is not only rich in iron but also contains sebum, which conditions your hair. The leafy green also contains omega-3 acids, magnesium, potassium, and calcium…ingredients for keeping hair shiny and healthy. 

Eggs

Eggs are packed with biotin, which boost hair growth. Make sure you add eggs to your breakfast table.