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Food

4 Anti-Inflammatory Foods You Should Eat For Hair Loss, According To Dermatologists

December 21, 2017 by Lisa Cupido
shefinds | Food
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At some point in many women's lives, we deal with major hair drama. Whether that takes the form of hair shedding caused by stress or hormonal changes, dry and brittle hair that results from too many chemical processes, or dull, drab hair that lacks luster and life, there's only so much topical products can do. 

 

Real hair changes can come from the foods we eat. These four anti-inflammatory foods are ideal for hair health — and especially important to help combat hair loss. 

 

Photos: Shutterstock 

coconut oil

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains a wealth of fatty acids, and these acids increase your body's ability to absorb vitamins A and E, which are crucial to hair growth and health. Incorporating one tablespoon of coconut oil into your diet each day can do incredible things for your hair and health — but the hair benefits you can get from this amazing oil don't stop there. Use it as a topical scalp treatment to remove sebum build-up from hair follicles and strengthen strands. 

 

flax seeds

Flax Seeds

Flax seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids that improve the elasticity of hair. Increasing each strand's strength decreases the risk of split ends and shedding. Flax seeds can even help reduce dandruff and eczema on the scalp.

lentils

Lentils

All legumes — a category that includes lentils, peas, and beans — contain minerals that are known for their hair-growing properties: folic acid and iron, specifically. The protein in lentils helps build new cells and folic acid is important because it transports oxygen from your blood to hair follicles, spurring new hair growth and preventing excessive shedding.

salmon

Salmon

Like flax seeds, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that aid in the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals for hair growth. If that isn't enough, it also contains vitamin D and protein — both crucial for hair health. If you're searching for a lunch or dinner ingredient that is an all-around hair care star, look no further — salmon is a winner. 

Author:

Lisa Fogarty is a lifestyle writer and reporter based in New York who covers health, wellness, relationships, sex, beauty, and parenting.

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Woman adding sugar to aromatic coffee.
Tasty bagels, blueberries, and butter on a wooden board.
Cooking spray versus olive oil comparison.
Brazilian rice, beans, and chicken dish from top view.
Checking the time on watch while having breakfast.
Grocery store display of deli meats and sandwich products.
Cooked salmon served with rice and greens.
Inside view of a Costco store.
Woman taking magnesium supplement.
Selection of s'mores brownies and baked ricotta from Aldi.
Grilled chicken with fries, salad, and dipping sauces.
Frozen pizza available in the store.
Fried fish served with fries.
Spilling vitamin C pills into hand.
Purple sweet potato with hands on stomach.
Moringa powder and fresh leaves.
Woman using fabric softener while doing laundry at home.
Fit woman enjoying avocado, cucumber, tomatoes, and walnuts.
Cottage cheese topped with fresh berries.
Best yogurt compared to the worst processed meats.