By now, I hope you’ve had a chance to read last week’s blog post: Part 1: Beauty Foods for Skin. This week, we’re diving into beauty foods for hair, and next week, we’ll explore Part 3: Beauty Foods for Healthy Nails.
Beauty doesn’t just come from having a healthy diet, good digestion, and elimination—it’s also about confidence. Confidence is one of the most beautiful and appealing qualities anyone can have. True beauty comes from within.
When you eat nourishing foods, you give your scalp the essential nutrients it needs to promote vibrant, healthy hair. While genetics can affect your hair’s texture and thickness, nutrient deficiencies have a significant impact on hair health. Other factors like medication side effects, adrenal fatigue, and thyroid issues can also affect your hair.
The only living part of your hair is the follicle, which is why topical treatments have limited effectiveness. Healthy hair starts from within, with the nutrients feeding your follicles.
Here are some beauty foods and recipes that support gorgeous hair and their health benefits. I’ll share foods for strong, healthy nails next week.
**Hemp Seeds**
These nutty and buttery seeds are a favorite of mine for both sweet and savory recipes. Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein, offering about 10g in just three tablespoons. They’re also rich in sulfur-bearing amino acids, which help build strong hair and skin. Hemp seeds and their oil are great sources of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties that helps maintain hormonal balance. Hormonal imbalances can lead to hair loss, but hemp is seldom treated with pesticides, making it a clean choice. Have you tried my Hempseed Maple Cinnamon Butter from Joyous Health or the Cauliflower Hemp Soup?
**Extra-Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)**
This beauty staple has been around for thousands of years. It’s a rich source of monounsaturated fats with anti-inflammatory benefits and vitamin E. Applying EVOO to your scalp can help with dryness. Always choose high-quality EVOO from the first pressing, as “extra-virgin” oils offer the most benefits. Like coconut oil, EVOO can help tame frizz and add shine. Healthy fats are crucial for hormonal balance, which is essential for optimal hair health. Try my sun-dried tomato sunflower seed pesto or the Kale Walnut Pesto in my book.
**Eggs**
Eggs are a budget-friendly, high-protein food filled with vitamins, essential fats, and antioxidants—everything you need for shiny, silky hair. The protein in eggs supports hair structure, and topically, they can add shine and body to your hair. Check my natural beauty guide for an egg hair treatment recipe.
**Salmon**
Oily fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are superfoods for hair, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. A lack of omega-3s can make hair dry and brittle, but fish oils help moisturize scalp glands, promoting shiny, healthy hair. Omega-3s also reduce inflammation and balance hormones, aiding hair health. Try the baked salmon with lemon tahini drizzle from Joyous Health.
Hair grows about 0.5 inches each month, so patience is key. While skin changes can appear quickly, hair health improvements may take 3 to 6 months. Personally, significant change in my hair took about 6 months to a year during my early twenties.
There are many foods beyond those I’ve highlighted that contribute to beauty—so embrace variety in your diet. This list is just a sample to get you started.
Have a joyous day,
Joy
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**Comments and Responses:**
“Thank you for this blog post and for the information in your wonderful book! I’ve been avoiding eggs, but after revisiting your book, I gave them another try. I’m thrilled they weren’t as scary as I thought. Thank you for your advice!”
“Glad to hear you’re enjoying whole eggs now, Liz! They’re packed with protein and good fats crucial for beautiful skin. Thanks for your comment!”
“I love your blog—it’s informative and helpful, especially for those who care about hair health. I eat eggs regularly and appreciate these tips.”
“You’re welcome! Heather – Joyous Health Team”
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“I loved this article on foods for hair health. Thank you for sharing your expertise.”
“Thanks, Stephanie! Joy appreciates your kind words. We’re delighted you’re enjoying Joyous Health. Rachel – Joyous Health Team”
“Joy, your tips are wonderful! As someone new to Joyous Health, I love what I’m learning. I’m curious about managing nutrients—should I vary my sources, or is it okay to double up?”
“Hi Katie, welcome to the Joyous Health community! Nutrient management can seem overwhelming, but our bodies don’t operate on a strict daily clock. Missing omega-3s one day is okay if your intake was good the day before. Focus on getting a variety of nutrients, but don’t stress too much—it can counteract your efforts. Rachel – Joyous Health Team”
