Since hair is largely made of protein, we are going to be sharing how you can keep your protein intake up in a healthy way! And no, these solutions will not leave your hair brittle and over-processed. In this article, we show you what protein power looks like in our food.
Lean meats
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‘Lean meats’ are meats with a relatively low fat content. Examples of lean meats include skinless chicken, turkey and red meat with the fat trimmed. Red meat is a rich source of protein, saturated fat, zinc and B vitamins and when we reduce the fat, it adds to the nutritional value of the meat.
Lean meats are generally regarded as a safe source of protein. And our hair loves protein.
2. Fish
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Fish is a high quality source of protein. Fish is rich in calcium, phosphorus and a great source of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, iodine, magnesium as well as potassium.
According to Healthline, fatty fish like salmon, herring and mackerel have nutrients that may promote hair growth. Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to hair growth.
3. Beans
Beans are a plant-based source of protein. Beans are a simple and inexpensive source of nutrients that you can add to your diet today. Nutritional benefits differ from bean to bean however the average bean contains protein, iron, fibre, selenium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium and potassium.
Beans are also quite essential to hair growth because they are a good source of zinc, which aids the hair growth and the hair repair cycle.
4. Legumes
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Legumes and beans are fruits or seeds of a family of plants called Fabaceae. They are a rich source of fiber and vitamins. Legumes are very popular amongst vegetarians who eat it as a replacement for meat.
Legumes are also very economical and a dietary source of good quality protein. Legumes have about twice the protein content of cereal grains and are higher in protein than many other plant foods.
Legumes, like lentils, are great sources of protein, iron, zinc, and biotin. Though rare, biotin deficiencies can result in brittle hair. If you are experiencing hair loss or increased hair thinning, then biotin can help. Legumes are healthy food for skin and hair.
5. Low-fat dairy products
Milk is the most commonly consumed dairy product over the years but dairy products also include yogurt, cheese and butter. Like legumes, dairy products are also a great source of biotin (Vitamin B7) that is known to fight hair loss.
It’s important to remember that our body doesn’t recognise our hair as a priority. Because of this, our hair suffers if our nutritional requirements aren’t met. These 5 high protein foods are packed with the type of nutrients that are not only beneficial to our body but our hair too.
Here’s to healthier hair.
Love MPL!