-By Kimberly Fitzgerald, Hair Technician

Did you know that what you eat not only nourishes your body, but also your hair? There are several essential vitamins and nutrients that are important to not only maintain healthy, strong hair, but also promote hair growth. These vitamins and nutrients are found in foods that are easily accessible and in many of our diets already, but many are not aware of their role in hair health.

• Fatty fish are high in Omega-3 fatty acids. 3% of the hair shaft is made up of these fatty acids, so adding fatty fish to your diet will help strengthen brittle hair.

• Red bell peppers contain Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps create a necessary protein called collagen which reduces hair loss and improves growth. Vitamin C deficiency can cause dry hair and split ends.

• Spinach has anti-aging properties due to its Vitamin A, which protects against dry, dull hair.

• Coconut contains potassium and electrolytes and also has healthy fats, Vitamin E and Vitamin A. This gives the hair its shine and moisture.

• Avocado contains Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and Omega-9 fatty acids. Omega-9 makes hair softer and more manageable.

• Eggs contain sulfur which helps with Vitamin B (biotin) absorption and the production of collagen and keratin. Collagen has also been shown to maintain hair thickness.

• Oats have high amounts of Zinc, Biotin, Magnesium and Potassium to treat brittle hair and damaged ends.

Adding these foods to your diet on a regular basis can provide many benefits to your health, and the health of your hair. If you are also seeking non-surgical or surgical ways to enhance thinning or lost hair, or want to speak to someone about available options, contact our office at 585.244.0323 for more information!