If fuller, stronger hair is on your vision board this year, your diet may be just as important as the products on your bathroom shelf. According to dermatologist and trichologist Dr. Geetanjali Shetty, hair growth starts from within, and the right nutrients can make a measurable difference in how fast your hair grows, how strong it feels, and how much you shed.
Hair follicles are among the most metabolically active structures in the body, which means they require a steady supply of nutrients to function optimally. When the diet falls short, hair growth can slow, strands can become weak, and shedding may increase. Dr. Shetty emphasizes building meals around specific vitamins and minerals that directly support the hair growth cycle.
Struggling With Sleep? This Rechargeable Sound Machine Is A Total Game-Changer
1. Protein
Hair is primarily made of keratin, a protein, so adequate protein intake is non-negotiable for growth and thickness. Dr. Shetty recommends incorporating protein-rich foods such as eggs, lentils, chicken, and tofu. These foods provide the amino acids needed to form strong hair strands and support the anagen (growth) phase of the hair cycle.
2. Iron
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional causes of hair loss, particularly in women. Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen to hair follicles, which is crucial for healthy growth. Dr. Shetty suggests iron-rich foods like spinach, beetroot, and dates, which can help reduce excessive hair fall when consumed regularly as part of a balanced diet.
3. Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3s support scalp health and help strengthen hair at the root, reducing breakage and dryness. Foods such as walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are excellent plant-based sources that can improve hair texture while also supporting overall skin and heart health.
4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D plays a key role in stimulating hair follicles and supporting new hair growth. Low levels have been linked to thinning and shedding. Dr. Shetty highlights fish oils, egg yolks, mushrooms, and almonds as important dietary sources that can help maintain healthy vitamin D levels, especially for those with limited sun exposure.
5. Vitamin B12
B12 supports red blood cell production and nerve health, both of which are important for delivering nutrients to the scalp. Inadequate B12 levels can lead to increased shedding. Dr. Shetty recommends milk and curd, which are accessible sources of B12 for many people.
6. Zinc and biotin
Zinc and biotin are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of hair and supporting healthy growth. These nutrients help prevent brittleness and breakage. Nuts, seeds, and whole grains are key foods Dr. Shetty suggests to ensure consistent intake.
The bottom line? There’s no single “magic” food for hair growth, but a nutrient-dense, well-rounded diet can significantly improve hair strength, density, and growth over time. As Dr. Shetty’s guidance makes clear, feeding your follicles the right nutrients is one of the most effective long-term strategies for healthier hair this year and beyond.
