All of us want to have healthy-looking hair and nails. But many people have this false belief that healthy-looking hair and nails are all about expensive shampoos, hair treatments, and nail salon appointments. But that’s not the case. The rate with which your hair and nails grow is largely dependent on your genetics, and while you can make it look better with nail polish or hair care products, it will be camouflage. What actually impacts on the health of your hair and nails is your diet. Eating the right foods and getting the right nutrients are the only thing that can help you and make sure that your hair and nails grow strong, healthy, and shiny. So what are the foods that you should eat? Find out below.
1. Eggs
Eggs are one of the healthiest foods out there. Did you know that your hair and nails are mostly made of protein? Eggs are full of protein, biotin, and other healthy fats and nutrients that can help your hair grow healthier and longer, and studies show that people deficient in protein have brittle dull looking hair, so get that protein in!
2. Fatty Fish
I’m sure you’ve heard about the health benefits of eating salmon and other fatty fish, but those omega-3 and omega-6 are pretty crucial for hair health. It’s proven to help people in thinning hair to achieve good results and grow thicker-looking hair. Fatty fish also contains a lot of vitamins that are also good for your nails and skin.
3. Avocado
Avocado is not just a trendy millennial breakfast ingredient, it is also full of healthy fats that can help your hair grow shiny and healthy. Avocados are also a good source of vitamin E which is often prescribed as a supplement to those struggling with brittle nails and hair.
4. Nuts and Seeds
Many people overlook the importance of nuts and seeds in their diet, thinking it can’t possibly provide enough benefits in a small sprinkle that can be added to salads. But nuts and seeds are amazing sources of vitamin B, zinc, and healthy fats — all things that are usually prominent in hair and nail supplements. So make sure to add a sprinkle to your salad or your morning oats.
5. Berries
Speaking of oats and breakfasts, make sure to top those with a generous helping of berries. They are full of antioxidants that protect your hair and nails from damage, and they’re a great source of vitamin C, which helps your body produce collagen and absorb iron, both of which are good for your hair.
6. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a good source of beta-carotene which will then be converted by your body into vitamin A, which is amazing for your scalp and your hair. Just one sweet potato provides 4 times the amount of vitamin A you need. So definitely keep ordering those sweet potato bowls.
7. Spinach
Spinach is a good source of iron, and it’s also full of vitamin A, which, as we said is great for both your hair and your nails. Just a cup of spinach a day can supply you with enough vitamin A for the day. And since spinach doesn’t really have a taste you can easily add it to soups, stews and smoothies without worrying that it’ll change the overall flavor.
8. Whole Grains
Whole grains like brown rice, buckwheat and oats can help to make your nails and hair stronger. They’re not just carbs and fiber, they’re also full of nutrients and vitamins like zinc, biotic, vitamin B that are good not only for your hair and nails but they’re beneficial to your bones too.
