Anybody can have Hair Problems.  Our hair is made up of two parts: living and non-living.  The living part of hair is made up of the hair follicle, root, and sheath.  These parts lie under the skin.  The non-living part of hair lies above the skin and is called the hair shaft.  The hair shaft is the part we see.  It contains melanin, which gives the hair its color.  Hair care is an important part of hygiene, and if we do not have proper hair care, our hair will become damaged.  There are many different types of hair and they are all susceptible to different problems.

Symptoms of Hair Problems can vary depending on the person and the problem itself.  Balding or thinning hair, for instance, is very visible because the person will have less hair in certain areas of the scalp.  Additionally, the following Hair Problems can occur in men or women.

• Hair loss
• Thinning hair
• Dry scalp
• Dandruff
• Itchy scalp
• Damaged hair
• Split ends

Many things inside and outside of our bodies can cause our hair to become damaged.  Both men and women can have Hair Problems.  When we think of hair problems associated with women, we generally think of chemical damage.  Men tend to have thinning hair or dry scalps.  Harsh and caustic chemicals are found in many hair products.  Repeated exposure to these chemicals results in damaged, unhealthy hair.  Chemical damage can include:

• Relaxers
• Perms
• Flat Ironing
• Blow Drying
• Coloring and Highlighting

Balding is another common problem that affects men and women.  Whether the hair is falling out or thinning, there are many reasons for this problem.  First, there may be a serious lack of nutrition pertaining to the hair.  While many people buy hair products that list nutrients as ingredients in them, these nutrients do not go or get into the body on the level that will resolve the core issue.  The nutrients need to be consumed in order to get into the bloodstream.  The hair must be fed from the inside out, not outside in.  Some hair-specific nutrients include:

• Copper
• Zinc
• PABA
• Biotin
• Silica
• Vitamin C and E
• Sulfur

• It may be beneficial to change or modify your diet to a healthier one that includes plenty of raw, organic fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts.  Eating a plant-based diet can help ensure that you get the essential nutrients you need for your hair to be healthy.  It is best to eliminate meats, processed foods, dairy products, added sugars, salty foods, or junk foods to promote hair health.  This will help to change your Hair Problems from the inside out.
• It is best to eat fruits and vegetables with nutrients that cater to hair health.  Your hair needs protein, so it is beneficial to get spirulina, nuts & seeds, leafy greens, and legumes in your diet.  Additionally, it is best to consume plant-based foods that are rich in vitamins A, C, & E, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and zinc.  These foods are listed in the "Things you should eat" section below.
• Avoiding chemicals in hair products can help to reduce damage as well.  Look for salons that offer all natural and organic hair colors and straightening systems.  These products are just as effective as the products with chemicals, except they are much gentler on the hair.  You can even try soaking your hair in extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil once a week to allow your hair to absorb the nutrients.
• Look for shampoos, conditioners, and other hair styling products that are natural and chemical free.  Most salons and beauty retailers will carry healthy alternatives that will actually help to nourish your hair instead of ruining it.
• Avoid heat styling and opt for air drying your hair when possible.  This will limit breakage and dryness and allow your hair to recover from past damage.

• Broccoli
• Berries (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries)
• Blackcurrants
• Kiwis
• Papaya
• Oranges
• Lemons
• Dark Leafy Greens (spinach, kale, & chard)
• Avocados
• Carrots
• Squash
• Sweet Potatoes
• Lentils
• Hibiscus Tea
• Walnuts
• Almonds
• Brazil Nuts
• Sesame Seeds