Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (84 page)

Oily fish, nuts, and seeds. These contain essential fats needed for healthy hair and follicles. Aim to eat fish two to three times a week and eat two to three tablespoons of seeds daily. Be sure to include some pumpkin and flax seeds, as these contain zinc, also needed for hair growth.

Sprinkle kelp flakes onto soups and salads. Kelp is rich in iodine needed for thyroid function. An underactive thyroid is sometimes implicated in cases of hair loss.

AVOID

Sugar, refined carbohydrates, and alcohol. These can all raise blood-sugar and insulin levels, which can have a negative effect on the hair follicles.

Wheat bran, tea, and coffee. These can interfere with the absorption of minerals, such as iron, needed for hair growth.

HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Take warming herbs and spices to improve circulation, such as cayenne pepper (in small amounts), ginger, cinnamon, and cumin. Add them to soups, stews, and casseroles.

Take the herb astragalus, which is a very good source of vitamin B.

Add the contents of a multivitamin to a smoothie daily.

Take vitamin B complex daily. Make sure it contains biotin, as this is particularly important for hair growth.

Iron supplements should be taken only if you are diagnosed with iron deficiency.

If digestive symptoms are present, take digestive enzymes with meals to aid absorption of nutrients. You may also benefit from taking probiotics, as the beneficial bacteria in the gut produce some B vitamins that are needed for hair health.

If there is a female hormone imbalance, supplementing with agnus castus can help. Magnesium is also needed for hormonal balance.

EXTRA TIPS