Investigations have found that hair loss is common among those who enjoy eating fatty meats, cream, fried foods, honey, and who frequently consume carbonated drinks and abuse alcohol. These foods contain fewer nutrients necessary for hair growth, affecting the nutrition of hair follicles. Furthermore, excessive alcohol abuse often leads to gastrointestinal diseases, which impairs the absorption of proteins, vitamins, and minerals, thereby affecting hair growth.
The main component of hair is protein containing sulfur amino acids. Therefore, a daily intake of protein-rich foods in appropriate amounts is recommended, such as fish, lean pork, milk, dairy products, and soy products. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal function and structure of epithelial tissues and promoting hair growth. Foods rich in Vitamin A include carrots, spinach, lettuce leaves, almonds, nuts, mangoes, and other fruits and vegetables. Additionally, animal livers, fish and shellfish, and eggs are also rich in Vitamin A.
Vitamin B can promote the metabolism of the scalp. Vitamin B is found in fresh fruits and vegetables, and whole grains, such as wheat, red rice, peanuts, soybeans, spinach, tomatoes, shiitake mushrooms, and lentils. Furthermore, sardines and cheese are also rich in Vitamin B.
Vitamin E can promote blood circulation. It is mainly found in foods such as walnuts, olive oil, corn, malt, peas, sesame seeds, and sunflower seeds.
Inadequate intake of minerals can also affect hair growth. This is because trace elements such as iron, zinc, copper, and calcium are fundamental substances for the metabolism of melanin in human tissues, cells, skin, and hair. A deficiency of these substances can cause premature graying of hair. Black-colored foods contain higher levels of these trace elements. Common examples include black beans, black rice, black fungus, black dates, black sesame seeds, and Silkie chicken.
Protecting hair also requires avoiding spicy and irritating foods, such as green onions, garlic, chives, ginger, Sichuan peppercorns, chili peppers, and cassia bark. It is also important to avoid greasy and heaty foods like fatty meats and fried foods, as well as high-sugar and high-fat foods.