HAIR RULES TO LIVE BY

From applying avocado as a leave-in treatment to eating more sardines for shine, here’s our holistic approach to healthy locks

ADD PROTEIN FOR REPAIR

Hair shafts are made up of more than 90 per cent protein – an essential ingredient to repair, replace and rebuild hair. Increase your protein intake by having two eggs for breakfast, add ½ cup lentils or chickpeas to your lunch salad or soup, and 100g chicken, turkey or fish for dinner.

BOOST IRON AND ZINC FOR STRONG STRANDS

Healthy hair follicles are nourished by a rich blood supply containing iron and zinc. Find these minerals in red meat, fish, seafood and fortified breakfast cereals. Enjoy 100g lean red meat three-to-four times per week.

INCLUDE HEALTHY FATS FOR ULTIMATE GLOSS

The best sources of omega-3 fats are oily fish such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines. Keep tinned fish in your top drawer at work for an easy option or have salmon rashers with eggs for breakfast a couple of days a week. An alternative source of omega-3 is flaxseed oil. Drizzle a teaspoon or two over your meals.

DRINK WATER FOR SHINY LOCKS

Hair follicles need water. Limit or replace caffeine-based drinks and alcohol with H²O and have one glass of water with each meal/snack.

NEVER CRASH DIET!

When you dramatically restrict your food intake you starve your body’s ability to replace hair, skin and nails. Hair can become thinner or growth may even stop – so don’t skip meals.