From Shiny's US beauty blog, ShinyGloss...
ShinyGloss and KissandMakeup show you all the tricks and treatments to keep your hair looking it's best, but usually we can only work with what you've got.
But to improve what you've got, you may just have to work from the inside out, starting with your diet.
Hair expert and trichologist (specialist in the study of hair structure and diseases) Vetta Thompson has shared her tips for what to eat to improve your hair. And heck, it can't hurt your body, either!
- Stay Hydrated - According to Vetta, drinking eight 12-ounce glasses of water a day is vital to building the foundation for healthy hair.
- Get Plenty of Calcium - Getting an adequate amount of calcium in your diet daily can promote hair growth and strengthen hair overall, says Vetta. Calcium in the form of dairy products that are low in fat are the best choice, as well as leafy green vegetables.
- Eat Your Protein - Your hair is made of protein - protein deficiency can cause a loss of hair color, and can also cause the hair to become brittle and prone to breakage. According to Vetta, "many of my patients arrive with weak hair, usually a telltale sign of protein deficiency. Once I get them on the right track nutritionally, they see marked improvements." Vetta recommends incorporating lean protein such as chicken and beef.
- Eat Healthy Fats - Essential omega-3 fatty acids are key for a healthy scalp. People who consume few essential omega-3 fatty acids can experience brittle, dry hair and eventually hair loss. Vetta recommends eating fish, nuts and healthy fats like olive oil to maintain a good balance.
Vetta has also developed a hair vitamin to help provide the nutrients you just can't get from foods. Viviscal Thinning Hair Vitamins for Women, $49.50, have been formulated with 22% marine protein for hair growth. Viviscal's unique formula has been reputed to help with a wide variety of hair concerns, including thinning hair and hair loss. The hair vitamins contain a high amount of amino acids (proteins) derived from marine origin extracts along with Vitamin C.
