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Treating your hair externally is not enough to achieve the long, shiny locks of your dreams. In order to boost hair growth, you also need to provide it with the right kind of nutrition-whether through your diet, or via supplements.
“The link between healthy hair and our diet is stronger than we often realize,” registered dietician Trista Best explains. “By making a few simple changes, hair loss prevention (and even reversal) can be achieved. Try incorporating food or supplements that are rich in vital nutrients like biotin, zinc, and protein.”
One of the best ways to make sure your hair gets all the nutrients it needs? Whip up a morning smoothie that’s packed full of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids-including this *one* very special ingredient: collagen peptides.
Collagen Peptides
First, what is collagen?
"Collagen is a structural protein that makes up approximately 30 percent of all protein in the body," Trista explains. "It is structural because it plays vital roles in the body's basic structures like hair, skin, bones, and cartilage." In good news for all of us, collagen supplements like Vital Proteins have been known to promote healthy bones and joints, better skin elasticity, and stronger hair and nails.
The catch? "Most women will begin losing collagen way earlier than they would assume," Trista tells us. "This loss begins in a woman's twenties, while some begin as early as 18 years old." Therefore, it's a good idea to begin supplementing with collagen early on.
According to Trista, "you can easily improve the thickness and health of your hair by adding collagen peptides to your morning coffee or shake. Because digestion and absorption slow down throughout the day and into the evening, especially while sleeping, adding these to your morning routine ensures you are getting the optimal amount of the supplement."
Anyone looking to amp up their wellness routine with collagen peptides can easily do so with the help of fan-favorite smoothie recipes from Vital Proteins. Among the brand's many smoothie options, the Cocoa Berry Smoothie is one of the most popular-plus, it's super easy to make!
(Of course, you can also opt to add a scoop of collagen peptides to your morning cup of joe, if coffee is more your thing.)
To make the Cocoa Berry Smoothie, you'll need:
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 banana
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 cup frozen cherries
- 3 teaspoons raw cacao powder
- 1/2 teaspoon honey
- 1 scoop Vital Proteins collagen peptides
- Cacao nibs, extra cherry or blueberry pieces (for an optional garnish)
Blend well, and enjoy!
