Are there foods that can help stop hair loss and thinning?

• Q:  I am 34 and I have noticed my hair starting to thin quite badly, which worries me a lot. I am reluctant to take pills or use chemical serums on my scalp, so can you tell me if there are any foods that can stop my hair falling out?

Answer:  Foods alone will not cure hair loss or stop common conditions of alopecia, such as pattern baldness, but, like vitamins, certain types of food can help with the health and condition of your strands.

Many of us lack vital nutrients and minerals in our diet, and that is why multi-vitamin supplements can be so beneficial to our hair, particularly for those of us who suffer from the effects of baldness.  But, like many people, you are not keen on consuming supplements, therefore we can recommend some foods that can benefit your hair and help with its healthy maintenance.

Spinach

Spinach is a great source of iron, vitamin A and C and protein. Iron deficiency is the main cause of baldness and shedding, so spinach is not only iron-rich, it also contains sebum which acts as a natural conditioner for hair. It also provides the hair with vital minerals like omega-3 acid, magnesium, potassium, calcium and iron, which can help reduce the effects of thinning.

Eggs

Eggs are loaded with essential nutrients such as proteins, Vitamin W12, iron, zinc and Omega 6 fatty acids. Choline supports the healthy balance of the body which has a huge impact on the health of hair and scalp. Eggs contain plenty of Choline, and although you shouldn't eat too many eggs, try to make them a part of your diet on a weekly basis.

Nuts

Add plenty of nuts to your diet to prevent hair loss. Nuts contain plenty of protein which can strengthen hair cuticles and nourish the scalp. Vitamin E builds capillaries in the body improves blood flow to the scalp, therefore encouraging hair growth. Eating plenty of Vitamin E foods like almond nuts can stimulate the hair follicles that grow hair.

Green Tea & Green Apples

We've touch on the power of the greens as few times on this website, but it really is true - green tea and green apples can help prevent the effects of baldness and promote healthy hair growth. Green apples are rich in minerals such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese and potassium which play a great role in the development and formation of hair strands. Green tea is a good source of panthenol, which is often used in shampoos and conditioners to strengthen hair and manage split ends. Panthenol, along with the other antioxidants present in green tea, may help in strengthening the hair and making it healthier.


You may also like to read: 10 Foods That Prevent Hair Loss