While many of us enjoy the monsoon, a lot of us detest it as well – the reason (amongst others) being that it brings with itself drastic hair fall. The humidity in the hair makes our roots weaker, leading to hair fall, and if you have hair that lacks volume anyway, then this could be disastrous. But did you know that certain foods can help prevent hair fall, especially during the rainy season? Using them consistently will help you strengthen your hair from within, and protect them this season. Take a look (source: nutritionist Lovneet Batra)Dry GingerDry ginger, also known as “soonth” is commonly found in our kitchens. A winter favorite, it is made by drying fresh ginger and then grinding it into a powder.How it helpsImproves blood circulation: Dry ginger immensely helps improve blood flow to the scalp. This means more nutrients reach your hair roots, making them stronger.
Fights Scalp Infections: Ginger’s natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties keep the scalp clean and free from infections, that in turn could have led to more hair fall.Makes hair stronger: Regular consumption of dry ginger can help reduce hair fall by strengthening hair follicles from within.Aliv SeedsAliv seeds, also known as garden cress seeds or “halim,” are tiny red seeds packed with nutrition.How it helpsRich in Protein: Hair is essentially made of protein, and aliv seeds are high in it, thus supporting hair growth and repair.Loaded with Iron: Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair fall. Aliv seeds are rich in iron, which helps improve blood flow and oxygen supply to the scalp.Contains Essential Vitamins: The seeds are fortified with vitamin A, vitamin C, and folic acid, all of which strengthen the hair from inside.How to UseSoak aliv seeds in water overnight, and add them to milk, smoothies, or salads. You can also make a simple aliv “kheer” with milk and jaggery.Black TilBlack til, or black sesame seeds, are well known for their health benefitsHow it helpsPacked with Minerals: Black til is rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc, and copper, all of which are key to hair strength and growth.Premature Greying: The nutrients in black til help maintain natural hair color and prevent early greying.Improves Scalp Health: The healthy fats in these seeds nourish the scalp and keep it moisturized, reducing dryness and flakiness during monsoon.How to UseYou can sprinkle black til on salads, add them to chutneys, make a tadka out of it (in daal, sambar etc) or simply eat a spoonful every morning. Roasting them lightly enhances their flavor and makes them easier to digest.NannariNannari, also called Indian sarsaparilla, is a root commonly used in South IndiaHow it helpsDetoxifies the Body: Nannari is known for its cooling and detoxifying properties. A clean body (from inside) leads to a healthier scalp and less hair fall.Rich in Antioxidants: It helps fight free radicals that can damage hair follicles.Improves Hydration: Nannari syrup, when mixed with water, helps keep the body hydrated, which is crucial for hair when the humidity outside is high.How to UseNannari syrup is easily available in stores. Mix it with water and a little lemon for a tasty drink, or add it to buttermilk for a traditional twist.Orange Pumpkin SeedsPumpkin seeds, especially those from orange pumpkins, are a superfood for hair.How it helpsHigh in Zinc: Zinc is essential for hair tissue growth and repair. It also helps keep the oil glands around the hair follicles working in the right manner.
Contains Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These healthy fats nourish the scalp and promote hair growth.Rich in Antioxidants: Pumpkin seeds have vitamin E and other antioxidants that protect hair from damage caused by pollution and humidity.How to UseEat a handful of roasted pumpkin seeds as a snack, or add them to your breakfast cereal, salads, or smoothies.Additional tipsBe Consistent: Include these foods in your daily diet for best results.Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your scalp healthy.Eat a Healthy Diet: Combine these foods with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains for overall hair health.Avoid Excessive Styling: During monsoon, avoid too much heat or chemical treatments that can weaken hair
