Plenty of products and tools promise to improve your hair. You can find a quick fix for everything from boosting shine to promoting growth to adding volume. But your hair’s health is ultimately a reflection of your overall bodily health and physical wellness. The two things are directly linked: challenges with your strands—breakage, thinning, dryness, for example—are often due to a lack of nutrition or internal hydration.  

If your strands or scalp feel dry or flaky, you may not have enough healthy fats in your diet. Thinning hair or slow growth? You may not be eating enough protein. And brittle-feeling strands could be an indication that you aren’t staying hydrated. 

The takeaway is simple: overall physical health can lead to healthier hair. With this in mind, we’ve put together a list of our favorite health-forward tips that will help you, and your hair, look and feel its best:

Get More Omega-3 Fats in Your Diet

Essential fatty acids contribute to healthier hair follicles, and they add moisture to your scalp and strands. Try eating foods rich in omega-3 such as flaxseeds, sunflower seeds, and fish.

Stay Hydrated 

Hydration is key to optimal health. In addition to drinking plenty of water throughout the day, you can incorporate foods that are packed with water like watermelon, cucumbers, tomatoes, and lettuce.

Reduce Stress

Stress can be detrimental to both poor hair and bodily health. Find practices that help lower stress levels such as meditation, yoga, and breath work. 

Rest Up

Sleep fixes most things. Getting enough rest helps your mind and body recharge. Set a bedtime alarm on your phone to remind you to wind down each night. 

Supplement 

Deficiencies in zinc and iron can cause your hair to shed. Find a multivitamin or supplement that contains zinc and iron to strengthen your hair. 

Take Your Time

Results can take a while to show up. Be kind and patient with yourself, and your hair, as you take the necessary steps to enhance your overall well-being.

Nathalie Du Pasquier, 𝘉𝘢𝘴𝘬𝘦𝘵 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘈𝘳𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘬𝘦 (2000)