Beauty is said to be skin deep. So goes with having a beautiful, healthy hair. Healthy hair is essentially ‘dead’ at its length, but is actually attached to a living, reproducing structure- the root, which is situated just below the surface of the scalp. Living cells within the root produce hair and, if not properly nourished, their ability to make hair is badly affected.

A variety of nutrients are needed to maintain a healthy, beautiful hair:

Vitamin A. This is needed to enable cells to divide and replicate normally. A lack of Vitamin A can lead to dry hair and skin, while too much can cause inflammation of the follicle. Vitamin A is present in orange fruit and leafy vegetables, whole milk, margarine, and eggs.

Minerals. Copper is needed for hair structure and can be found in milk, bread, and green vegetables. A lack of zinc can lead to hair loss. The richest source of zinc are oysters, peas, pulses, butter, and kidney.

Vitamin C. Lack of Vitamin C can cause excessively dry skin and hair. Plenty of fruit and vegetables ensure a good supply.

Vitamin B. Lack of Vitamin B can lead to oily hair conditions.

B2. This is found in meat, poultry, milk, eggs, cereals, and rice.

Niacin. Found in meat, bread, and potatoes.

Pantothenic Acid. This helps keep the hair follicle in good condition. Egg yolks, peanuts, and wheat germ are good sources.

Biotin. A severe lack of this can lead to hair loss. This can be found in nuts and pulses.