The hair expert says that a Christmas dinner could actually help your hair grow
A doctor has shared that a common food which makes an appearance at Christmas could help with hair growth. Dr Balwi from Elithair has said that there are actually six festive foods that could help with this issue. The leading hair surgeon said that if you’re a fan of Brussel Sprouts, then you’re in luck.
Whilst it’s a food you either love or hate, these veggies are a excellent for hair health and a great source of vitamin C which boosts collagen production for strong hair and folate. Because of this, it promotes cell turnover and improves the overall texture of the hair cuticle, enhancing hair growth.
Turkey is another Christmas food that can help as it is high in protein and rich in B vitamins. These are key to helping your scalp stay healthy with B vitamins all having an important function. The expert says: “Vitamin B2 helps metabolise nutrients in the hair follicle to promote hair growth. Vitamin B5 hydrates the scalp, creating an ideal environment for hair growth and vitamin B12 plays a key part in producing oxygen-rich red blood cells that promote healthy hair follicles.” So what other foods can help with your hair growth goals?
Foods that help with hair growth
Christmas nuts
If you have a handful of walnuts and almonds, this will do wonders as they are a great source of omega-3, vitamin E and zinc – all of which support the maintenance of hair follicles which is necessary for healthy hair growth. The expert explains that: “Vitamin E prevents oxidative stress and free radicals from damaging the scalp and hair follicles, creating a healthy environment for hair growth. Zinc is another important mineral supporting hair health as it produces keratin, a protein that forms the structure of hair. Eating nuts filled with these vitamins and minerals is a good way to boost hair growth and can be helpful to those experiencing a reduction in hair density.”
Smoked salmon blini
The expert explains: Fatty fish like salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, selenium and vitamins all of which strengthen and hydrate the hair follicles, reducing scalp dryness and preventing hair fall.” In fact, “in one study, published by the National Library of Medicine, it was found that women who took omega-3 supplements reported a significant improvement in hair density and a reduction in hair loss. The body doesn’t naturally produce Omega-3 fatty acids so this goodness is received through food and supplements only. Christmas salmon blini’s are the perfect option to introduce this key nutrient into your diet.”
Parsnips
If you are a fan of parsnips as part of your festive feast, this is another great way to boost growth as it contains zinc, vitamin B6, vitamin E and vitamin C. “Vitamin B6 is essential for hair tissue growth and repair It boosts keratin and stimulates hair regrowth, leading to increased density. This vitamin helps hair cells get the amino acids they need to make proteins, making the hair thicker and healthier and promoting hair growth”, the expert says.
Should be worried about my hair loss?
The NHS say if you’re you should worried visit your GP. They warn that on a daily basis, we lose between 50 to 100 hair and we may not even realise. Whilst hair loss is not usually anything to worry about, it can be a sign of a medical condition. They state: “Some types of hair loss are permanent, like male and female pattern baldness. This type of hair loss usually runs in the family.”
Other types of hair loss may be temporary. They can be caused by:
- an illness
- stress
- cancer treatment
- weight loss
- iron deficiency
Losing hair can be upsetting. For help to cope with this, the health service suggests joining a support group, or speaking to other people in the same situation on online forums. Find a support group near you on the Alopecia UK website here.
