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When it comes to keeping your hair healthy and strong, diet is an important factor. Specifically, ensuring that your diet contains the right nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals is an important step in improving the appearance of your hair. To get your day off to the right start, try having a nutrient-rich breakfast, which will not only keep you nourished throughout the morning, but will also help your strands reach their full potential.
But what makes a healthy breakfast? Certain ingredients stand out, particularly when it comes to addressing hair loss concerns. Keep reading for more details.
Legumes
Legumes like beans and lentils might not sound like your typical breakfast, but there are definitely benefits to incorporating these foods into your morning routine. Legumes are a great source of protein. Plus, they contain zinc, iron, and biotin – all of which can contribute to healthier hair though you've probably heard of biotin the most.
Board-certified dermatologist Sharleen St. Surin-Lord tells Byrdie, "Biotin strengthens the structure of keratin, which makes up the hair, skin, and nails. It makes hair stronger, more resistant to breakage, and thicker in appearance."
Lentils in particular also contain folic acid, another beneficial nutrient when it comes to a well-nourished scalp. Eat This, Not That! explains, "Lentils are rich in folic acid, which can help your body make red blood cells. Those red blood cells bring oxygen to your organs, including your skin and scalp."
Considering these benefits, adding legumes to your morning routine seems like the obvious answer. Here are some recipes to get you started.
Kale Lentil Breakfast Bowl
What You'll Need: dried lentils, water, broth, salt, red wine vinegar, olive oil, fresh parsley, garlic, lacinato kale, eggs, plain Greek yogurt, salt, black pepper
Full Recipe: Lively Table
Spiced Lentils with Egg
What You'll Need: red lentils, yellow split peas, olive oil, shallots, garlic, garam masala, low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, salt, pepper, cilantro, eggs
Full Recipe: Kitchn
Vegetarian Breakfast Burritos
What You'll Need: whole grain tortillas, homemade hash browns, eggs, pinto beans or black beans, salt, hot sauce, unsalted butter, sharp cheddar cheese, cilantro, green onion, salsa, avocado
Full Recipe: Cookie + Kate
