You Are What You Eat

Foods to Grow Your Healthiest Hair Ever

The health of your hair is a reflection of how you care for yourself — be it grooming, hair cuts and your diet. If you want to grow your hair, take a look at what you're eating (or not eating) and see if you can make some adjustments. Your hair — and body — will thank you.

For the ultimate in hair health, here are 16 key foods to add to your diet:

Tangerines - Rick in Vitamin C. Vitamin C makes it easier for your body to absorb iron, which is essential for the health of your hair, skin and nails, and also promotes healthy hair growth.

Strawberries-  has many of the same vitamins as this ultimate fruit to promote hair growth. Jam-packed with antioxidants that protect your hair from harsh free radicals and include a hefty-dose of keratin-producing vitamin C.

Oats - Packed with healthy key nutrients, including iron, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, oatmeal contains silicon, which promotes hair growth.

Avocados - Avocados are loaded with healthy fats, including omega-3s. They're also rich in biotin, which makes them one of the best foods to eat for hair growth. 

Broccoli - As one of the most nutrient-rich foods, broccoli is high in healthy vitamins, including vitamin C, vitamin B-9, iron and zinc. It also provides small amounts of biotin, a powerful preventative against hair loss. 

Sweet Potatoes - Sweet potatoes contain vitamin A and beta-carotene, which promotes the health of your scalp and hair. In particular, beta-carotene stimulates your scalp to produce sebum at the base of your hair follicles, which helps hair grow shiny and soft. 

Spinach and Other Leafy Greens - Among other essential nutrients, spinach is high in iron, zinc and magnesium and can help promote the production of sebum for a healthier scalp and hair follicles. Spinach is the hair-growth superstar of the leafy green world. 

Peanut Butter - The star ingredient in a PB&J can provide a potent source of nutrients that promote hair growth. Peanut butter contains vitamin E, which has been shown to be a powerful weapon against hair loss.

Chia Seeds - Many seeds are nutritional superstars when it comes to helping your hair grow, including flax, chia and sesame seeds.  Chia seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, protein, as well as calcium and phosphorous.

Shiitake Mushrooms - The humble shiitake is packed with zinc, which promotes healthier skin, and selenium, a potent antioxidant that helps the body combat free radicles. 

Barley - A healthy source of protein and fiber, barley is particularly rich in vitamin E, which can help reduce hair loss. It's also a terrific source of iron and zinc. Both vitamins can help reduce hair loss and promote healthier skin.  

Lentils - Lentils are brimming with folic acid, which is linked to healthful hair development. They also contain high amounts of protein and iron, a vitamin that can be lacking in a healthy vegetarian diet. 

Other Foods for Hair Growth

If you incorporate animal products into your daily diet, here are a few foods that provide the vitamins and minerals necessary for healthy hair growth:

Eggs

Salmon and Other Fish

Red Meat

Greek Yogurt