Boost thinning hair

After the age of 25 the diameter of individual hairs naturally starts to decrease, and by 40 most people have finer hair with less body.

A lack of vitamin D, iron, zinc or other micronutrients, along with an underactive thyroid and falling oestrogen levels around the menopause can also contribute.

FOODS THAT CAN HELP

Lunch on lignans: Researchers have found that high intakes of these natural plant compounds (found in pumpkin seed oil, flaxseed oil and sweet potato) are associated with hair regeneration and a reduced rate of hair loss.

Grab some garlic: This pungent bulb increases blood flow to hair follicles. Get a shot of vitamin B12: Increasing your intake of the nutrient through fish, eggs, chicken and milk sources helps to prevent hair loss.

FOODS TO AVOID

Cut the salt. Research shows that slashing salt intake can cut your hair loss by as much as 60 per cent.

Volume booster: Soy steak with pumpkin seed dressing

2 lean steaks Handful of pumpkin seeds 2 cloves garlic, crushed 30ml (2fl oz) soy sauce 1tbsp Worcestershire sauce Zest and juice of 1 lemon

Mix all the ingredients together and marinate the steaks for 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge). Grill or pan fry the steaks to your liking and serve with green leaves, scattered with pumpkin seeds, black pepper and a little pumpkin seed or olive oil.