We are currently experiencing chilly mornings and comfortable warmth during the day, signalling that winter is coming. A sudden nip in the air is indeed comforting, bringing respite from the months-long humidity. However, the transition could be a bit challenging for our overall health. During this time, people are extra cautious to prevent coughs, colds, and sore throats. However, what we often overlook is our skin and hair health, which can become drier than usual. As the winter season approaches, our hair becomes dry and frizzy, losing its shine and lustre. But fret not! We have some amazing tips for you to enjoy healthy, shiny, and smooth hair during the season. All you need to do is make some basic changes in your diet. Read on.
Winter Hair Care: Why Does Hair Become Dry During the Winter Season?
During the winter season, the dry weather directly affects our hair, according to experts. Our hair has no natural lubrication and relies heavily on oils produced in its roots to stay nourished. Since winter dries out our bodies, the scalp uses up its stored oil completely, leaving the hair dry, brittle, and frizzy, as stated in a WebMD report. This phenomenon also leads to the production of dandruff on the scalp.
The report further explains that the dry weather also affects our cuticles, the protective layer that safeguards our hair from environmental damage. “When a cuticle’s layers separate and peel away from the hair, it can’t hold moisture, and some oil escapes,” adds the report.
Also Read: 7 Foods For Hair Growth You Should Be Eating Daily
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Winter Hair Care: 4 Diet Tips To Prevent Dry And Frizzy Hair
What’s the first thing that comes to your mind when we talk about hair care? We bet most of you immediately think of expensive hair care products for topical application. While we never suggest eliminating oils, shampoos, and serums from your routine, we simply recommend making some basic changes in your diet to keep your hair moist and healthy.
1. Maintain a balanced water intake:
We often overlook the importance of drinking enough water during the winter, which is where we go wrong. It is important to maintain a healthy water balance in the body to stay hydrated and promote oxygen flow in the cells and tissues, leading to healthy hair growth.
2. Consume seasonal produce:
A simple search on Google will yield a list of reasons to include seasonal food in your diet. Seasonal produce is rich in essential nutrients that boost immunity and keep us nourished. Did you know that they are also beneficial for your hair? According to a blog on the official website of Narayana Health (www.narayanahealth.org), one of the best ways to keep your hair healthy is to follow a proper diet rich in seasonal fruits and veggies. They are a rich source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals and help promote overall hair health.
3. Limit alcohol consumption:
Many of us tend to include alcohol in our winter diet. This is mainly because winter is packed with festivities, which often entail gatherings with friends and family. However, consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta points out that regular or excessive alcohol consumption leads to fluid loss in the body and makes you feel dehydrated from within. This increases the production of toxins, further affecting our overall health, including our hair.
4. Reduce fried food intake:
The blog on the official website of Narayana Health further states that in addition to a healthy diet, it is equally important to limit the consumption of fried and high-calorie foods. The cozy winter season often tempts us to indulge in sinful treats. We frequently opt for fried, greasy, and sugar-loaded foods that come with the season. It’s okay to enjoy these winter delicacies; just remember that moderation is key. Consuming anything in excess can increase oxidative stress in the human body, hindering the regular circulation of blood and oxygen to the skin and hair cells.
Incorporate these simple changes into your winter diet and enjoy great hair health throughout the season. Happy winter, everyone!
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