You may not be looking for a mane of mythological proportions, like Homer Simpson’s in the episode Simpson and Delilah (1990), or go full hippie like as shown in the 2007 musical Hairspray. But if you’re searching for a way to get some natural locks reemerging on that balding or thinning pate, visit the grocery store. These 12 foods may be just the tonic you’re looking for.
1. Avocados
Vitamin E, which you’ll find in great amounts in avocados, is a potent antioxidant. And, antioxidants are significant aids with hair growth. Avocados are also filled with healthy fats, helpful for hair health.
2. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are a complete protein, the building block of hair. They are also packed with other hair-growth-promoting nutrients like fiber, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
3. Chickpeas
AKA garbanzo beans and the main ingredient in falafel, chickpeas are an excellent source of plant-based fiber and protein. The B vitamins and folic acid they contain in high concentrations help maintain hair health.
4. Eggs
Eggs have around six grams of protein per egg, making them a great foundation for hair growth. They also contain nutrients helpful for the hair like vitamins B12, A and D. At least one medicinal food study found the peptides in eggs also stimulate hair growth.
5. Peanuts & Peanut Butter
In the playful family film The Peanut Butter Solution (1985), streaming on The Roku Channel, a young boy loses his hair and grows it back with a potion made of peanut butter. But it’s not all fiction. Peanuts actually contain a high concentration of biotin, which both prevents hair loss and promotes hair growth.
6. Pumpkin
Beta carotene and iron, both of which pumpkin contains in high quantities, are both key nutrients for hair growth. It also helps strengthen hair and prevent dull, dry hair.
7. Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of omega 3-fatty acids and lean proteins, which promote hair growth while also reducing swelling and benefiting the nervous system. WebMD lists salmon along with other fatty fish like mackerel and tuna.
8. Shiitake Mushrooms
The strength of keratin fiber relies in large part on copper, of which Shiitake mushrooms are a significant source. In this role, copper helps maintain the natural color of hair and prevent graying.
9. Tangerines
Studies have linked iron with hair loss. Vitamin C, which is also an antioxidant, helps the body to absorb iron.
10. Oatmeal
There are a host of hair-growth-stimulating nutrients in oatmeal, including fiber, iron, zinc, polyunsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids.
11. Blueberries
Blueberries are a significant source of a range of antioxidants, a powerful counter to oxidative stress. This, in turn, helps prevent hair loss.
12. Plain Greek Yogurt
In addition to high concentrations of protein, yogurt also contains probiotics, which help the body absorb other ingredients and promote gut health.
Obsessed with hair? Watch popular movies about hair, such as Barbershop and Hairspray on various streaming services reviewed on HotDog.com.
