Ever wonder how the chicest women seem to have effortlessly healthy hair? It’s not just about great products—it’s what they’re eating. Forget the avocado toast. If you really want to level up your hair game, here are five unexpected superfoods that are quietly delivering major hair benefits. Consider this your VIP pass to stronger, shinier, and healthier hair.
Oysters
Oysters aren’t just for luxe dinners by the sea—they’re a secret powerhouse for your hair. As one of the richest sources of zinc, oysters are basically a beauty supplement served on ice. Zinc is a key player in hair tissue repair, cell division, and even hormonal balance. Keeping those androgen levels in check is crucial for optimal hair growth. Deficiency? Say hello to thinning, brittle strands. Next time you’re sipping champagne, don’t forget to order a dozen oysters—they’re doing more for your hair than you think.
Seaweed
Seaweed is the true unsung hero of hair care. Packed with iodine, which regulates thyroid hormones, it’s essential for keeping hair growth on track. Seaweed varieties like nori and kelp are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which keep your scalp moisturized and inflammation-free—key for healthy hair follicles. Add in a cocktail of iron, zinc, and vitamins A and C, and you’ve got a nutrient-rich superfood that nourishes your hair from root to tip. You could say it’s the beauty world’s best-kept secret—next time you grab sushi, know you’re feeding more than just your cravings.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are the quiet overachievers of hair care. Often overlooked, these tiny seeds are packed with zinc—yep, just like oysters—and plant sterols, particularly beta-sitosterol. These sterols have been linked to reduced hair loss by inhibiting DHT, the hormone responsible for shrinking hair follicles. So, not only do pumpkin seeds promote hair growth, but they also help keep hair thicker and fuller. Toss them into your next salad or smoothie bowl, and think of it as the cool-girl way to nourish your hair. And yes, studies back this up—beta-sitosterol from pumpkin seeds has shown promise in reducing hair loss in clinical trials (Teeranachaideekul et al.).
Bone Broth
Bone broth might sound old-school, but it's the modern beauty secret for stronger hair. Rich in collagen, bone broth helps rebuild the protein structure of your hair, making it more elastic and less prone to breakage. It's also packed with amino acids that support keratin production—basically, bone broth is like a protein shake for your hair. Celebrities like the Kardashians swear by bone broth for its beauty benefits, so sip on this warm, nutrient-packed elixir, and you’re nourishing your locks from the inside out.
Black Sesame Seeds
If you’re worried about premature graying, black sesame seeds might just be your new best friend. Rich in copper, these tiny seeds support melanin production, keeping your natural hair colour vibrant and helping slow the appearance of gray hairs. But it doesn’t stop there—these seeds are also loaded with antioxidants, which protect hair follicles from oxidative damage. Black sesame seeds have been a staple in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, and the cool girls are catching on. Add them to your smoothies or sprinkle them on toast, and let them work their anti-aging magic.
References used
Karashima et al. (Study on the role of zinc in hair growth and the hair cycle)Płonka et al. (Research on zinc's impact on hair follicle cycling and post-damage recovery)
Khotijah et al. (Nutritional benefits of seaweed for cosmetic applications, including hair)
Adiningsih et al. (Seaweed antioxidants protecting against premature hair aging)
Teeranachaideekul et al. (Beta-sitosterol in pumpkin seed oil reducing hair loss)
Daniels et al. (Collagen's role in improving hair strength and structure)
