Does hair and nails need food to grow?

Does hair and nails need food to grow?

Well yes. No doubt you know that eating healthy is good for you in a plethora of ways---- it can decrease your risk of disease, improve your immune system, increase your energy levels and even affect your sleeping habits. But did you know certain foods can improve the way you look, too? Read on to find out which nutrients will give your hair and nails extra luster, strength and shine.

1.       1. Biotin/Vitamin H:-

Biotin can improve hair that is splitting or thinking as well as strengthen weakened nails. Taken with zinc and the corticosteroid clobetasol propionate, biotin has even been used to treat alopecia an autoimmune skin disease marked by the loss of hair. “A deficiency in biotin may result in brittle hair or even hair loss.”

2.       2.Omega-3 Fatty Acids:-

To get shinier hair introduce more Omega-3 into your diet which “ help support scalp health and may give your locks extra luster and shine”. The three active ingredients----alpha-linolenic acid are all essential fatty acids and are important components of the stratum corneum, which is the outermost layer of the epidermis that contains keratin and has water-holding capabilities. Deficiency in essential fatty acids can result in dry scalp or dandruff.

Foods to try:- Eggs, flaxseed, fish oil, mackerel, salmon, sardines, spinach, tuna and walnuts.

3.       3.Protein:-

Protein intake is important for many reasons, notably when it comes to hair and nails. Both “ are made of structural proteins known as keratin, so adequate dietary protein is important for providing the building blocks for growing strong hair and nails.

Foods to try:- Chicken, eggs, lean red meats, low fat dairy, nuts, seafood, soya beans and whole grains.

4.      4. Vitamin A:-

Vitamin A helps produce a conditioning substance for the scalp known as sebum which keeps hair looking and feeling healthy.

Foods to try:- Apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, cheddar cheese, egg yolks, mangoes etc.

5        5.Zinc:-

Zinc is another nutrient active in helping the immune system function properly. Zinc is a component of hundreds of enzymes in the body some of which regulate the body’s ability blocks of healthy hair and nails.

Foods to try:- Cashews, Green beans, lean beef.