A doctor has shared five common foods he recommends people eat for “long, thick hair”.
Keeping our hair in tip top condition is a common desire among many people. Naturally, we all want strong, healthy locks that look and feel their best.
Having good hair can be a major boost to one’s self-confidence – who doesn’t feel better when sporting a glossy mane? When hair starts shedding excessively, or looking thinner or more limp, it can be the cause of great stress.
Experiencing hair loss can be anxiety inducing and incredibly upsetting, regardless of whether it’s a temporary or permanent loss. The unwanted occurrence can be caused by a range of factors.
According to the NHS, some hair loss is perfectly normal and “we can lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day, often without noticing”. Typically, this isn’t anything to be overly concerned about, but in some instances, losing hair can be a sign of a medical issue so it’s important to seek professional medical advice and guidance.
Other temporary hair loss can be caused by many factors, such as an illness, stress, iron deficiency, weight loss, or side effects from cancer treatment. On the quest for expert advice and insight, many turn to social media.
Thankfully, there’s a hoard of professionals and titans of industry all too keen to share their guidance with the masses online. Some have gone on to amass armies of followers, grateful for their help.
One such pro is Dr Joe Whittington, a board-certified emergency physician. In a popular TikTok video, the doctor shared a range of foods which could help improve the health, look and condition of your hair.
Five foods the doctor recommends eating for better hair
Speaking directly to the camera, Dr Joe said: “Long, thick hair. If that’s what you want, here’s five foods you need to incorporate into your diet today:
- Eggs – They are a great source of protein, biotin and vitamin B12, all which are essential for hair growth.
- Salmon – This is an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids. It helps to strengthen hair and promote hair growth.
- Spinach – It’s rich in vitamins A and C, both of which are important to produce sebum which keeps your hair moisturised.
- Nuts – These are high in protein, vitamin E and zinc, all which are important for hair growth. Vitamin E also improves blood circulation to your scalp.
- Sweet potato – A good source of Vitamin C and also contains beta carotene which is converted to vitamin A in your body.”
Hundreds of people were keen to share their thoughts in the comments section beneath the doctor’s video. One person said: “omg I’m 46 and you just gave me a huge smile. I eat 4 of those 5 every day!! And just realized my hair is think and grows fast!!!!!”
Another agreed: “Yes! All this and rosemary hair treatments!” while a third added: “Genetics helps a huge part” to which Dr Joe replied with a simple: “Yes!”
If you’re concerned about your hair, it’s best to visit your GP for a personalised consultation and to discuss possible treatment plans.