The best foods and remedies for a healthy scalp
By Louise Belle BHSc (Nut Med)
If you experience a dry, itching, flaky scalp, dull hair or hair loss – showing your scalp a little TLC (tender loving care) can make a difference! Many factors can cause your scalp to be irritated or unhealthy, such as a lack of nutrients in the diet, overgrowth of fungus on the scalp, excess sebum (oil) production, food intolerances and the weather. Here are some tips that you can use to keep your scalp nice and healthy!
Ditch the chemicals
If you are using conventional chemical-filled shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, hair gel, mousse or any other product on your hair, this could be irritating your scalp. The chemicals used in these products can be quite harsh and can inflame, damage and strip away oils from the scalp and hair. Switch to natural, chemical-free hair products that will nourish your hair and scalp instead of damaging it.
Tea tree oil
This wonderful oil has potent anti-fungal and antiseptic properties. Adding a few drops of tea tree oil to your natural shampoo here and there when you wash your hair, can help to stop fungal overgrowth on the scalp.
Zinc foods
Oysters, beef, lamb, turkey, pepitas, sunflower seeds and amaranth are rich in the immune-boosting mineral zinc. Research has shown that zinc can help to control sebum production and is needed for skin repair. Boost your intake of these foods in your diet.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil has antimicrobial and antifungal properties. When applied topically to the scalp it can help to soothe irritation, itchiness or dryness. Try rubbing coconut oil into your scalp and allowing it to absorb for 10 minutes before washing it out.
Apple cider vinegar
Rinsing your hair in apple cider vinegar (ACV) can help to rebalance the pH of your scalp and can also help to stop the overgrowth of yeast on the scalp. Dilute 1 part ACV to 3 parts water, rinse your hair with this mix and allow to soak for a couple of minutes, before rinsing out.
Biotin foods
If your hair is looking dull and lifeless, biotin could help you. Biotin is a vitamin found in egg yolks, liver, brewer’s yeast, salmon, avocado and pork and helps to maintain healthy hair. Biotin is combined with vitamin C, silica and MSM in Collagen Food Powder to support healthy hair, skin and nails.
Hair care
Not brushing or washing your hair regularly enough can cause a build up of oil and dead skin cells on the scalp. This is particularly important for those who wear hats, exercise a lot, work in environments where there’s a lot of dust or other situations that would cause the scalp to be sweaty or dirty. Be mindful of washing your hair every few days.
Omega 3 foods
Omega 3 fatty acids are important for hydrating and nourishing the skin from the inside out. Deficiencies of omega 3 can result in dry, flaking skin. Fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel), oysters and other seafood, flaxseed, walnuts, chia seeds and pumpkin seeds are sources of omega 3 that you can include in your diet.
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