There may be some truth to the clichés that the eyes are the windows to the soul and your hair is your crowning glory. Have you ever looked at someone almost the same age as yourself with envy, as their sparkling eyes and luscious locks speak to you of boundless energy and youthful vitality? The answer to achieving the same youthful glow may very well be found in your refrigerator and fruit bowl.
Some suggested foods to add into your diet are:
Almonds
The vitamin E and antioxidants contained in almonds will keep your cells and tissues strong, can slow the ageing process, while even preventing grey hairs.
Avocado
While avocados are nourishing and delicious, they also contain essential fats and nutrients for your eyes. Avocados, along with walnuts and asparagus contain glutathione, thought to be an effective anti-cataract agent. Studies have also shown avocado to have the potential to reduce eye pressure in glaucoma patients.
Celery
Celery has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help improve your eye health.
Eggs
Eggs contain omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants which promote and maintain optimal eye health.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish such as salmon can also help protect your eyesight. Studies have shown that a high fish intake can lower the progression of advanced AMD; and by eating omega-3 fats, you can reverse signs of dry eye syndrome.
Kiwifruit
The vitamin C contained in kiwifruit combats free radicals and reduces the damage they can cause to your eyes. You can even reduce the risk of age-related cataracts by eating kiwifruit regularly.
Spinach
Adding iron-rich foods like spinach to your diet can help prevent hair loss and encourage new hair growth.
Sweet potatoes
Not only are sweet potatoes delicious they will help to stimulate the glands in your scalp to protect against dull, dry hair. They are full of beta-carotene, an oily fluid that nourishes your hair to keep it looking healthy.
Tomatoes
Adding vitamin C-rich tomatoes to your salads can help reduce your risk of eye disease.
Genetics, illness and hormonal issues can contribute to unhealthy hair and eyes. Unfortunately, these factors are out of your control. In addition to making some changes to your diet, the follow suggestions might help.
For healthy hair:
- Avoid wearing styles that pull at your hair such as tight ponytails or braids, especially fastened with rubber bands and hairclips.
- Consider Biotin supplements if you suffer from thinning hair.
- Let your hair dry naturally rather than risk damage from blow dryers, styling tools and rigorous towel drying.
- Less is more when it comes to shampooing your hair, as daily shampooing can cause damage.
- Don’t overbrush your hair. That old wives tale about 100 brushstrokes a night can cause more harm than good.
For healthy eyes:
- Have regular eye examinations.
- Wear sunglasses to help protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
- Wear safety glasses when undertaking hazardous jobs at home or work and protective eyewear when playing sport.
- Reduce the amount of time you spend in front of your computer screen.
- Quit smoking to decrease your chances of damaging your optic nerve or developing macular degeneration and cataracts.
Do you have any fail-safe tips to share for promoting healthy hair and eyes as we age? Or do you share the same philosophy as our grandmothers – eating your carrots will improve your eyesight and eating your crusts will make your hair curl?
Related articles:
Cataract warning signs
Hair today, gone tomorrow
How to get rid of ‘bingo wings’
Disclaimer: This article contains general information about health issues and is not advice. For health advice, consult your medical practitioner.