Stronger and shinier hair is something I would like.
Maybe not quite as long as Beyoncé’s in this portrait, but I do prefer my hair longer.
I find it more flattering, easier to manage and as it is nearly 100% grey, I like the mix of long and grey; a slight flaunt with tradition but very much a way of thinking today.
How do we naturally strengthen our hair and keep it shining and lustrous?
I asked Lily, a super nutritionist to give us some easy directions. I wanted to know how to look after our hair, every day, without too much extra effort and fanfare. She mentioned five ways to help hair strengthen and shine.
These gentle reminders I am determined to follow.
5 Ways For Stronger, Shinier Hair
- 1. Don’t skimp on healthy fats.
Did you know that a dry scalp and dull looking hair could be due to a deficiency in healthy fats? Omega 3 fats nourish and condition hair follicles giving you strong, shiny hair.
Eat
- Oily fish (2-3 portions a week) – wild salmon, fresh mackerel, tuna, anchovies, herring and sardines
- Ground flaxseeds, flaxseed oil, chia seeds, walnuts
2. Are you eating enough protein?
Hair is composed of protein, therefore a diet lacking in protein can result in weak brittle hair and hair loss. Many of us lack protein in our diets – ensure you consume a portion of protein at each meal and snack.
Eat
Lean meat, fish, eggs, yoghurt, beans, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, nuts and seeds
3. Eat more orange vegetables.
All orange vegetables are rich in vitamin A. Vitamin A stimulates sebum production, a healthy oil to keep the scalp nourished and moisturized. This oil also acts a natural conditioner for our hair follicles giving it a glossy shine.
Eat
Carrots, pumpkin, butternut squash, sweet potatoes
4. Eat an egg a day to keeps the hair doctor away.
Eggs are rich in Biotin and B12, two essential vitamins for hair growth. These nutrients are so essential, that a deficiency can result in hair loss. Biotin is even found in shampoo. Don’t skimp on the yolks, this is where all the nutrients are found.
Eat
Different varieties of frittatas and omelettes; poach, scramble or fry.
*Research has now disproven the hypothesis that eggs raise cholesterol
5. Soften and add shine to your hair with a coconut oil mask.
Natives of tropical coastal regions of the world have used coconut oil for thousands of years – and they can boast shiny thick hair. Coconut oil naturally nourishes, adds condition and shine to your hair. No harsh chemicals are involved.
Apply a quarter of a cup of warmed coconut oil to wet or dry hair and leave in for an hour. Then rinse.
Thank you, Lily. xv
image of beyoncé, pierre debusschere
5 Ways For Stronger, Shinier Hair, Lily Soutter
Lily Soutter is a Nutritionist & Nutritional Therapist
learn more about lily @ lilysoutternutrition.com
