Impact of Balanced Diet on Hair Health
A balanced diet really does impact the health of your hair, says registered dietitian and BDA spokesperson Clare Thornton-Wood. "There are a number of nutrients that are important for the health of your hair and how it looks," says the expert, noting that hair is not regarded as 'essential' by the body. That means, in times of deficiency, the body diverts nutrients to other areas that are more important for survival.
Research highlights that minerals and vitamins are essential for every part of your body, including your hair. These nutrients are needed for normal cell function and growth, and so it follows that some deficiencies may lead to hair loss.
While the following deficiencies are linked to hair loss, for some, it's debatable whether simply upping your intake of them will see re-growth. So, as with all medical conditions, if you have noticed any alarming or unexpected changes to your hair, it's worth booking a GP appointment to look at potential underlying factors.
The hair needs vitamin C to help with collagen synthesis - the main structural protein in hair, says Thornton-Wood. "It provides strength and structure, and also helps to stimulate follicles to encourage hair growth."
You should be able to get all the vitamin C you need through a healthy diet (and severe vitamin C deficiency is 'rare' in the UK) but if you're worried, she suggests starting the day with a smoothie. Blitz 150ml milk, 2 tbsp of porridge oats, 1 tbsp ground almonds, 2 tbsp berries and 2 tsp cocoa. It will make enough for two people, providing a good source of Vitamin C, as well as protein and iron.
