Foods to boost hair health

Seven ways to keep your locks in great shape.

Ÿ Give your hair strength by eating lean proteins found in eggs, fish, poultry and low-fat dairy products.

Ÿ Flavonoids - antioxidants that protect follicles and encourage growth - are found in berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, aubergines and red onion.

Ÿ Vitamin E increases oxygen levels in the blood and enhances circulation to the scalp. Try sunflower seeds, almonds and green leafy veg.

Ÿ Vitamin C prevents oxidation at the follicles, preventing hair loss.

Ÿ Biotin (vitamin B7) is essential, and found in green leafy vegetables, peanuts, brown rice, lentils and oats.

Ÿ Zinc stimulates hair growth by improving immunity. Eat sunflower and pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate and cocoa powder, peanuts and walnuts.

Ÿ Essential fatty acids prevent dry, brittle hair. Add walnuts and a teaspoon of flaxseed to your daily diet.

* Sumaia Al Khub, head of nutrition, Al Garhoud Private Hospital