We often focus so much on what we put onto our hair that we disregard the value that eating certain foods can have on our hair health.

The following seven common foods are essential for promoting thick, shiny and colorful hair. Incorporate them into your diet and you can steer clear of dandruff as well as premature graying and hair loss. The best part: it’s delicious!

1. Salmon

Healthy hair depends on getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D in your diet. Salmon is a great source of vitamin D, which prevents hair loss and promotes hair strength and durability. Salmon is also a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Protein is the building block of hair and omega-3 fatty acids prevent dry and brittle hair, hair loss, flaky scalp and reduced circulation to the scalp. Try this salmon over warm lentils recipe. Lentils also boost hair health.

2. Dark Green Leafy Vegetables

You can’t go wrong with dark green leafy vegetables. They are a great source of vitamins A and C, both of which promote the creation of sebum. A natural hair conditioner, sebum moisturizes your scalp. The best way to get the most bang for your buck is to chug your greens. Whip up a kale and ginger green smoothie and your hair will love you for it.

3. Eggs

With biotin and vitamin B content, eggs contribute to hair health. Biotin leaves your hair shiny and lustrous. It can also prevent hair loss. To get your egg fix, and elegantly so, indulge in a breakfast egg nest with fresh mint and honey.

4. Lentils

Lentils offer the power of folic acid, which enables enough oxygen to reach your scalp and skin, which is important for hair growth and cell renewal. Folic acid can also prevent hair from going gray. Dive into this French lentil dip and look younger, longer!

5. Green Tea

Green tea contains polyphenols, which are antioxidants that helps to prevent hair loss. Polyphenols also reduce dandruff. Who knew something as mild as tea could have such powerful implications!

6. Walnuts

Walnuts offer numerous hair-boosting elements. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, vitamin E and copper, all of which work together to strengthen, moisturize, and keep your hair shiny and lustrous. So, have your fig and coconut walnut cake and eat it too – strictly for your hair’s sake, of course!

7. Blueberries

Blueberries contain 25 percent of your recommend daily allowance of vitamin C in just one cup. Vitamin C is essential for the flow of oxygen in your body, including to your scalp and hair follicles. Too little vitamin C can lead to dry and splitting hair.

Photo Credit: Janine

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