Simple dietary changes can prevent distressing hair loss and thinning

Hair loss can be down to hormonal changes, a medical condition, stress or nutritional deficiencies.

Experts recommend people eat foods with antioxidant flavonoids to strengthen hair follicles, iron-rich foods to boost red blood cells, and protein- and silica-abundant foods to promote hair growth.

Mango 

This colourful fruit provides the mineral silica, which is a component of connective tissue that helps to strengthen hair and promote its growth.

Key nutrients: Silica, vitamins A, B6, and C, folate.

How to eat: Have two medium-sized slices of mango as a snack or after a meal.

Soy beans 

Foods derived from soy, such as edamame beans and tempeh, are thought to inhibit the formation of a hormone known as dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

An imbalance of DHT is believed to contribute to hair loss.

Key nutrients: Iron, omega-3, vitamin B2, magnesium.

How to eat: Aim for at least one 75g (2½ oz) portion a week

Eggs 

Full of protein, eggs help to boost collagen production.

Collagen surrounds hair strands, but breaks down as people age, leaving them vulnerable to breaking.

Key nutrients: Vitamins A and D, carotenes, lutein, zinc, protein.

How to eat: Enjoy a boiled or poached egg four times a week.

Kelp 

Certain nutrients in kelp, such as iron and the amino acid L-lysine, directly affect hair growth.

Iron ensures healthy red blood cell production, while L-lysine facilitates iron absorption. A deficiency in both can impact hair loss.

Key nutrients: Iron, L-lysine, zinc, vitamins B2 and B5, folate, magnesium.

How to eat: Have 10g every day to reach your nutrient quota or try a kelp supplement.

Figs 

Figs are a great source of iron, which is essential for healthy hair growth and shiny locks.

Other good sources include dried fruits and berries.

Key nutrients: Iron, potassium, magnesium, vitamins A and E.

How to eat: Have two figs a day.

Flaxseeds 

High in omega-3, these help nourish hair, which prevents it from drying out and becoming weak.

Key nutrients: Omega-3, vitamin B1, magnesium, phosphorus, selenium.

How to eat: Eat up to one tbsp a day, either as a snack or sprinkled over meals.

Pumpkin seeds 

These protein-rich seeds provide zinc, which supports cellular reproduction and enhances immunity, leading to hair growth.

Key nutrients: Zinc, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, protein.

How to eat: Eat up to one tbsp a day. Combine with flaxseeds for a nutritious mix.

Berries 

Naturally high in collagen-boosting vitamin C, berries aid iron absorption.

Vitamin C boosts scalp circulation, while its antioxidant action protects follicles from free-radical damage.

Key nutrients: Vitamin C, potassium.

How to eat: Have a handful every day.

Avocados 

Creamy avocados supply vitamin E, which increases oxygen uptake and improves circulation to the scalp to promote healthy hair growth.

Key nutrients: Vitamin E, potassium, omega-9, B-vitamins, folic acid.

How to eat: Eat one medium avocado two-to-four times a week.

Leafy greens 

Greens such as Swiss chard, watercress, spinach and cabbage, promote the production of keratin, which is a hair protein that strengthens follicles.

Key nutrients: Vitamins A, C, and K, B vitamins, potassium, folate.

How to eat: Eat a 100g (3½ oz) portion of leafy greens every day in a salad or as part of a meal.