Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails

Hair and skin are fantastic indicators of our health. When we are not looking after ourselves, our hair and skin are often the first parts of our bodies to suffer, losing their strength and vitality very quickly and making us look tired and depleted. Because the body sees hair and skin as being less important than organs such as the heart, liver and digestive system, if our nutrient stores are low the body prioritises and gives preference to these vital organs so that we remain alive. If your hair and skin lose their vitality, it is a good time to look at what might be missing from the diet.

The first thing to look at is whether you are eating enough protein for hair and skin nutrition. This is especially important if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or exercising frequently as these factors can greatly increase our protein needs. We need protein to make hair and skin cells, and low levels may be indicated by slow growth and frequent breakage. In order to produce healthy hair and skin, we may need to increase our protein intake. Some easy ways to do this is to include more lean meat or fish in the diet, or consume increased amounts of nuts and seeds, dairy foods and legumes. Spirulina tablets may also be useful, especially for vegetarians or vegans, as spirulina is a great source of easily absorbed plant protein.

There are also many vitamins and minerals necessary for good hair and skin nutrition.

Hair and skin may go through changes after stressful events or during pregnancy or breastfeeding because these are times when our bodies have an increased need for vitamins and minerals. If hair is thinning, breaking or rapidly greying, it could be a sign of low levels of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, biotin, silica and folate. The same vitamins and minerals are also essential for proper skin nutrition, and decreased levels in the body may result in skin that looks pale, sallow, dull, or with eczema or dark circles.

Another very important component of skin nutrition is good old water. It’s amazing how much healthier skin can appear after regularly drinking 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day. Toxins are flushed out, skin is more hydrated and even wrinkles may appear less noticeable.

For a healthier hair and skin, follow a diet high in protein and water, and consider taking a few simple supplements, and not only will you look healthier, you might just feel healthier too. For more information on supplements, click here.