Voluminous and healthy hair is a great sign that you are consuming the right kind of quality proteins, vitamins and minerals. 

Keratin is a type of protein present in the hair follicle which is critical for hair growth. The food one eats assists in not just the growth of hair but also in the development of keratin. Protein and micronutrients, i.e., vitamins and minerals help in good hair growth. 

Including these specific foods in one’s diet, assists hair strand development and strengthening of the roots. Dr Rinky Kapoor, a dermatologist, emphasises on the intake of micronutrients to naturally aid hair growth. Read on to find out which foods work the best for your hair:

Eight Must-have Foods for Good Hair Growth

• Eggs - Eggs are known to be the best food when it comes to boosting hair growth. The Biotin present in eggs promotes the development of keratin. They are also an excellent source of Vitamin A and E and minerals such as Zinc and Folate. These help in increasing hair thickness.

• Fatty Fish - Omega-3 fatty acids are known to work magic when it comes to hair growth. And a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids is fatty fishes such as Mackerel and Salmon which promote a healthy scalp and restores the natural shine in the hair. Omega-3 supplements are commonly available in drug stores or local chemist shops.

• Green Vegetables - Green vegetables which are a rich source of iron - vegetables such as spinach, amla (Indian gooseberry) and kale, help in strengthening hair roots, prevent early graying and are great when it comes to faster growth of the hair. The green veggies also keep the scalp healthy. These are also good sources of Vitamin A, Iron, Folate and Vitamin C

• Nuts and Seeds - Nuts and Seeds are power houses when it comes to the presence of minerals and vitamins contained in them. Several minerals like Zinc, Selenium along with Vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids are present in walnuts, Brazil nuts, almonds, flax seeds and chia seeds. These are excellent for strengthening cuticles and scalp nourishment.

• Fruits - Fruits which contain Vitamins A, E and C have high antioxidant properties that prevent hair fall and protect hair follicles from free radicals. Daily consumption of fruits such as guavas, peaches, sweet lime, oranges and blueberries helps in strengthening hair. 

• Yoghurt - Yoghurt proteins or peptides as they are called, enhance the activity or anagen phase thus  promoting hair density. A bowl of yoghurt with fruits or curd as a side dish at meal times should be  your goto snack if you’re looking at thicker and voluminous hair. 

• Milk - The protein and calcium in milk works towards hair strengthening and growth. Vitamin B12 is essential for good quality hair, so don’t skimp on that morning cuppa of milk at breakfast. 

• Soy Products - Soy proteins hydrate the hair, making it shiny. It is a good plant-based natural source of protein which activates hair follicle growth. Regular consumption of soy helps your hair become shinier naturally.  

While inclusion of these eight magic foods in your daily diet can work wonders for good hair, it must be remembered that hereditary factors, lifestyle, hypothyroidism, exposure to pollution in the environment and other hair problems such as dandruff can also be responsible for thinning of hair or bad hair quality. It is important to take advice from the experts while choosing the best diet and practices for your hair.