NUTRITION FOR HEALTHY HAIR - THE MANTRA

"You are what you eat " is a saying which implies to our whole body inclusive of Hair. With the exception of our bone marrow and the cells that form the lining of our stomach, the cells of the hair bulb reproduce at a much greater rate than any other body cells, because of its rapid growth, hair is very senstive to internal and external changes that may affect our body. Hair loss or dull, dry hair is often the first indicator to a developing internal disturbance. Its little wonder that the condition of our hair is directly affected by foods we eat or dont eat.A gradual thinning of the hair is an" over all" indicator which reflects low iron, zinc or calcium levels. It could also herald the onset of a physical disorder such as diabetes or problems of the thyroid gland.With the low Iron, Zinc, Vitamin C deficiency or a thyroid disturbance, the hair is very often dry brittle and lustureless. Hair texture and colour may also be altered with some deficiencies.

The Mantra to healthy hair is to have lots of protein in our diet, hair structure comprises of 97 % of protein; notably keratin. Proteins act as a growth booster and helps hair quality enhanced in every adequate way. Research studies show that if we dont eat food for four hours in a  stretch, the energy levels to our hair follicles is decreased and detiriorate hair quality. So Eggs, Fish, wheat germ , yogurt, beans, pulses ,calves liver, brewers yeast and soy protein being the richest sources of protein should be consumed in ample amounts.

Vitamin E, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Iron, Zinc also play very important role in supplementing hairs health, So our diet should contain all rich sources of above mentioned nutrients.Sources of Vitamin E are green leafy vegetables, nuts, whole grains etc. We can gather enough Vitamin C from Oranges, Sweet Lime, Gooseberry (Amla), kiwis, strawberries, red bell peppers and others.

Diet and lifestyle are two major factors that influence the health of the hair. Poor diet, illness and deficiencies of any particular vitamin and mineral affects the quality of hair and generate problems like dandruff, thinning, hair balding, premature graying etc. 

Beta Carotene , a component of Vitamin A can be gathered from red, yellow and orange coloured fruits & vegetables, green leafy vegetables, liver and eggs.

Lifestyle modifications include regular cleaning and brushing of the hairs. When the hairs are brushed , oil secreting glands in the scalp gets activated which provide lusture to the hairs. Applying different herbs like almond oil, heena, mahabhring raj oil, fenugreek seed powder, basil juice etc also helps in strenghthening the hairs.

So we should avoid smoking and consumption of alcohol as they harm hair quality, we should follow regular exercise regime, follow meditation to destress and massage the scalp to activate hair glands and hence healthy hair.

Hair has its own social significance as well, it adds to a lot to your personality and distinguish you from others. So if you need to stand unique and want to lead a healthy life; take care of each and every part of our body. 

Happy caring!!