How To Eat Your Way To Healthier Hair

When it comes to growing healthy, shiny hair, it's not just about cutting back on coloring and heat styling. According to an article published by Harper's Bazaar, the foods that you eat can affect the appearance and strength of your hair — and they're talking about more than protein and omega-3s.

One unexpected food that can lead to healthier locks? Clams and oysters, which are rich in zinc, according to Deborah Enos, a certified nutritionist in NYC. Low levels of zinc in your body can lead to the slowing of hair growth and even hair loss, explains Enos. If you're not so much into the mollusks, you can also get zinc through foods such as peanut butter and cheese. (Score!)

Another Holy Grail ingredient for healthy hair? Vitamin C, which can be found in foods like papaya, peppers, and brussels sprouts (yum). According to NYC nutritionist Lauren Slayton, vitamin C boosts the production of collagen, which surrounds the hair shaft and keeps it strong.

Finally, make sure that your iron and folate levels are high. Spinach is high in both nutrients, and you can also add other green vegetables such as asparagus and broccoli for additional folate, and Swiss chard and garbanzo beans for added iron (hummus = everything). Folate aids in the creation of red blood cells, while iron aids red blood cells in carrying oxygen throughout the body. Bottom line: Snack smartly (and often) for healthier hair. Doesn't sound half bad, does it? (Harper's Bazaar)