These Are the 9 Best Superfoods for Healthy Hair

You can buy the newest and most expensive shampoos on the market, but if your diet is lacking in essential nutrients you'll find it difficult to achieve that luscious head of hair that you've been dreaming of. Your body is continuously working to grow new hair, but the quality of that hair is largely dependent on the inclusion of enough protein, fats, vitamins and minerals in your daily diet. To make things a bit easier, we've researched the nine best superfoods that promote hair growth and health and will have you giving Ariana's ponytail a run for its money in no time.

1. Carrot

High in vitamin A and easily accessible, the trusty carrot should be on your shopping list this week to improve the health and thickness of your hair. Whether you digest it in juice form or with a side serving of hummus, this vitamin A-rich superfood even helps to strengthen your roots and reduce hair fall.

2. Oysters

Did you know that a deficiency in zinc can lead to a weakened scalp and even dandruff? Combat these hairy (get it?) issues by indulging in a few oysters now and then. They're the richest natural source of zinc there is.

3. Pumpkin

Sebum is an oily, waxy substance from your body's glands and in the right amount can help to keep your scalp and hair feeling soft and looking shiny. Taking in good amounts of vitamin A helps the body produce sebum, and pumpkin is a fantastic source. It's basically the new potato.

4. Lean meats

Protein is another nutrient that is vital to healthy hair growth (your hair is made of protein after all). Like iron, some people find it difficult to maintain regular levels of protein in their diet, so including lean meats is a good way to boost your intake.

5. Lentils

Iron deficiency is a common problem that not only makes those who suffer feel less than optimal but can affect other processes like hair growth. Vegetables that are high in iron are a great place to start when trying to promote healthy hair growth and lentils can easily be added to soups, salads and even burgers.

6. Salmon

We know that omega 3 fatty acids are an important part of our diet, and it turns out that the health of your hair depends on it. Eating salmon regularly will help to keep the shafts of your hair healthy as well as reduce hair fall and keep your scalp hydrated. What can't it do!

7. Nuts

Nuts are convenient as a snack or easily worked into your favourite meal, providing your body with vitamin E which is an essential nutrient for healthy hair. Adding nuts to your diet can improve blood circulation to your scalp and balance oil levels. So, macadamia or cashew?

8. Guava

You might have seen guava leaves mentioned on your favourite beauty sites lately, and there's a good reason why. Guava leaves naturally contain anti-inflammatory and properties and antioxidants that have been credited with thickening hair, treating scalp issues and assisting with growth.

9. Spinach

Another way to introduce more iron into your meals is spinach, the unsung hero of the green leafy variety. Improve the health of your hair follicles and resolve hair damage with its plethora of antioxidants through eating spinach or even using it in a DIY hair pack to soothe your scalp and boost growth.

Loved this? These are the best collagen-boosting foods for clean skin.