Hair loss occurs naturally and gradually with age. Some people welcome this change in their biological makeup with open arms while others have difficulty letting go of their thick hair. That’s why many synthetic products target older people and their problems that include preventing or delaying the onset of hair loss and promoting hair growth. These products range from hair oil to hair shampoo to medication.
And just recently, a group of researchers gave high hopes of promoting hair growth with sandalwood. But, wait. It’s not about getting a piece of sandalwood and rub it directly on the scalp. It doesn’t work that way. One scientist even commented the study applied only to synthetic sandalwood.
Anyway, what the researchers were telling us is that they discovered hair can detect odors. They said the hair follicles contain olfactory receptors, which are chemical receptors similar to the ones located deep in the nasal passages. These nasal receptors are the ones responsible for letting the brain know that something smells pleasant.
What now if the hair follicles can detect odor? How is it related to hair loss? Well, according to the researchers, the synthetic sandalwood can activate these hair follicles to stimulate hair growth. Relatively, previous research showed that a man-made sandalwood scent can stimulate the cells that are also found in hair follicles called keratinocytes. These cells help produce the protein, keratin, which gives your locks its luster and protects it against damage.
For this, the researchers were positive their findings of olfactory receptors can be a great help in treating hair loss. But then some scientists say these findings have a long way to go since it needs to be treated on actual patients.
While scientists are still trying to find the safest and most effective ways to prevent your hair from thinning, you can prevent further hair fall through your diet. Yes, you heard it right. Your diet is one of the keys to keeping your hair stay stronger. Without further ado, here are the foods that you should include on your every meal.
1. Soybeans
You might have heard of the many health benefits of soybeans including its ability to reduce bad cholesterol levels, lower rates of heart attack, reduce levels of bad cholesterol, relieve menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women, and boost the immune system. In addition to all these magnificent benefits, soybeans also help prevent the hormonal imbalance that contributes to hair loss.
2. Mango
While being sweet and delicious, mango is also beneficial to hair. It contains silica, vitamins A, B6, and C, and folate, which all help to strengthen hair, promote hair growth, and produce sebum that moisturizes the scalp and keep the hair healthy.
3. Kelp
Kelp contains essential nutrients such as iron and amino acid L-lysine that directly affects the hair. Iron produces healthy red blood cells while L-lysine regulates iron absorption. A deficiency of these two nutrients may lead to hair loss. Additionally, kelp has a high iodine content, which helps normal thyroid function. Hair thinning is one of the symptoms of thyroid issues.
4. Eggs
When it comes to hair health, eggs play versatile roles either through diet or as a homemade hair treatment. Eggs have a protein that boosts the production of collagen. As we age, the collagen surrounding the hair can break down, which can make the hair susceptible to breaking.
To get the most benefit from eggs, you can use it in many different ways. Some people use the whole egg as a hair conditioner and the egg whites to treat oily hair. If your concern is hair growth, use only the yolk and mix it with one tablespoon of almond oil, then apply to your hair. Egg yolks contain nutrients that facilitate the growth of hair follicles.
5. Green leafy vegetables
Green leafy vegetables are rich in nutrients that promote good health and prevent the risk of developing certain health issues. These fundamental nutrients include fat-soluble vitamins K and E, fiber, folate, and potassium. But for hair health, the iron in leafy greens has the best contribution. Iron fortifies the blood and keeps it healthy. Hair loss has been linked to a deficiency of this nutrient. For better iron absorption, pair your leafy greens with foods loaded with vitamin C such as citrus fruits or lemon.
6. Red peppers
More than enhancing the taste of your food, red peppers also work great for your hair. Red peppers are a great source for collagen-producing vitamin C. Collagen helps produce keratin, a protein that aids in strengthening the hair and making it healthy.
7. Avocado
Avocado packs lots of nutrients that promote hair growth, revitalize and moisturize the hair as well as keep the hair dandruff free. Avocado is a rich source of vitamins B and E, which help protect and strengthen the hair.
Vitamin E improves the health of the scalp and helps promote the growth of new healthy hair follicles. Vitamin B, particularly Biotin, aids in hair growth. Our body can produce this vitamin in the small intestine, but avocado consumption ensures we’re getting this essential nutrient to nourish the cells of our hair and strengthen its roots, shaft, and strands.
8. Figs
Though there’s no scientific evidence that points to the relationship between hair growth and figs, figs contain the vitamins and minerals that are linked to healthy hair such as iron, potassium, magnesium, and vitamins A and E.
9. Nuts
According to research, the essential fatty acids work not only to promote a healthy heart but also promote healthy hair. Omega 3s and omega 6s are found to help reduce hair loss and enhance hair growth.
Popular on the list for the best food sources of these essential omega fatty acids include almonds, walnuts, and coconuts. These foods are considered to have natural emollients for the skin and hair follicles. And the best part, they also help moisturize the hair shaft and make it shiny, which means you may no longer need hair conditioners to add luster or silkiness to your hair. Applying coconut milk or coconut oil directly on the scalp also helps strengthen and smoothen the hair.
