It may be surprising to learn that what you eat affects your hair. Your diet plan can either grow or break your hair. Although heredity and genetics play a huge role in your hair’s type and strength, some foods can also influence the state of your hair. This article brings to light 5 foods that cause hair loss and 5 foods that prevent hair loss.Â
Five foods that cause hair loss
1. Swordfish
Swordfish is one type of fish that you should avoid as much as possible if you do not want to lose hair. Swordfish contains a lot of mercury, and high levels of mercury can lead to hair loss.
2. Low protein diets
Sweet potatoes
Foods that are low in protein weaken the immune system in general. Constant consumption of foods low in protein may prove harmful to your hair. This is because the hair is made of protein, and lack of it can affect the hair’s health. When your body is not getting enough protein, it prioritizes protein allocation by only sending it where the body needs it. This does not include the hair.Â
3. Foods that contain high glycemic index
White bread
Examples of some of these foods are sugary foods and white bread. These foods increase the glucose content in the blood rapidly. Eating such foods can cause an increase in insulin, which may cause insulin resistance and hair loss.Â
4. Constant consumption of selenium
Pork
Selenium is an important mineral that plays a large role in a lot of processes in your body. It helps in metabolism and thyroid function. It even helps with hair growth. However, taking more selenium than required is bad for your hair.Â
A large intake of selenium causes the creation of too many antioxidant enzymes. When this happens, the body attacks its cells; this results in hair loss. Examples of such foods are pork, beef, turkey, and Brazil nuts.
5. Fried foods
Fries and fried foods make up a large part of many people’s diets. It is fast, crunchy, and easy-to-prepare food. Unfortunately, food experts recommend that fried food intake should be reduced for better health.Â
Fried foods can lead to several health problems, and hair loss is one of them. It usually contains hydrogenated oils that reduce important fatty acids needed for healthy hair. They also cause an increase in testosterone, which can cause hair loss.
Five foods that prevent hair loss
1. Eggs
Eggs are rich in protein, which is essential for hair growth. Proteins improve the texture of the hair and make it stronger. Eggs contain biotin. Biotin helps in the growth and strengthening of hair. Also, eggs are a good source of vitamin D. Vitamin D aids in creating new hair follicles to replace lost hair.Â
2. Spinach
Spinach contains a lot of vitamins and nutrients beneficial to hair growth. It is rich in vitamin B, manganese, and zinc. These nutrients provide nourishment for your scalp and hair.Â
It also contains magnesium and iron, which increase the strength and health of the hair. Its vitamin C content helps to protect and strengthen follicles. There is also the added benefit of high antioxidant composition in spinach. This helps to prevent hair damage.
3. Chia seeds
Chia seeds can be likened to magical seeds when it comes to hair growth. They contain a substantial amount of phosphorus, which aids in hair growth. Chia seeds also contain 1-lysine, which is widely known to promote hair growth. They also add elasticity and beauty to the curls of the hair. These seeds can be added to various foods such as smoothies, cereal, and baked goods.
4. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is one food that helps to build the immune system. It also has a lot of health benefits, and some of these benefits directly affect the hair. Oatmeal increases the elastic properties of the hair. This is important as it helps reduce the risk of hair breakage while combing.
Oatmeal is a solution to itchy scalps. It moisturizes the scalps and prevents itching. Polysaccharides found in oatmeal soften the hair, making it easier to manipulate. It is also important to note that oatmeal contains an amount of saponin. Saponin is a great cleanser and helps in the prevention of dandruff.
5. Oysters
Oysters can be very helpful in the growth and maintenance of hair. Oysters have high zinc content, which helps in the growth and repair of tissues in the hair.Â
It also maintains the hair glands surrounding the follicles, making sure they are working properly. Several studies show that zinc deficiency is closely associated with hair loss. Oysters provide a healthy amount of zinc to help with hair growth.
In conclusion, your diet can affect the state and health of your hair. You can save the money and time spent on hair repair by simply eating the right foods. Eating right provides your hair with nutrients and vitamins that will reduce hair loss and give your hair that lustrous look. Â