10 Hydrating Foods for Dry Skin and Hair

The dry climate can take a toll on our skin and hair, which is why your diet should include foods that promote health and hydration. Listed below are 10 of the most hydrating foods that you can eat to help replenish dry hair and skin.

10 of the Most Hydrating Foods for Dry Hair and Skin

1. Celery.  You can have this food for a snack with some healthy dip or hummus.  Celery is loaded with water and nutrients for little caloric expense.  Aim to have a stalk or two every day as a snack or as part of your bedtime meal to help hydrate your skin, add moisture into your hair, and to have you looking and feeling great.
2. Avocados.  While they are not always in season in the winter months, you can still get them from the local grocery store.  Avocados are an amazing source of healthy fats, which help the skin and hair to retain moisture.  In addition, the vitamin C contained in avocados help to repair damaged cells in your skin and hair.  Consider having half of an avocado every day to help with your skin and hair health.
3. Salmon.  It seems that salmon can do everything.  Add moisturizing skin and hair to the long list of amazing benefits of eating salmon.  The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon is vital for protecting skin and hair against UV sun rays and they help to reduce inflammation in the cells throughout the body, including the skin cells.  While salmon is probably your best bet for obtaining an amazing source of omega-3 fatty acids, you can also eat herring, mackerel, sardines, anchovies, rainbow trout, and halibut to gain the same benefits.
4. Flax Seeds. These tiny seeds are amazing for your health.  When ground into a fine powder, flax makes a great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.  Since it is such a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, ground flax is ideal for anyone looking to hydrate dry skin and hair.
5. Walnuts.  This is another food containing an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids.  This non-animal protein is a great source for healthy fats, protein, and potassium.  Consume a handful as part of a healthy snack between meals; just be cautious on consuming too many walnuts as they have an abundance of calories.
6. Whole Eggs. Eggs contain a large amount of vitamins and minerals designed to protect and nourish the skin and hair.  Have an egg or two for breakfast or hard boil a few for a midday snack to hydrate your skin and hair.
7. Watermelon.  What better food for hydrating skin, hair, and your body than something that is primarily composed of water.  Watermelons are loaded with vitamin C, which is essential for skin and hair repair.  Some would argue that due to the sugar content of watermelons, you actually are able to hydrate your body better than plain water.  See for yourself.
8. Carrots.  They grow similar to a potato and are able to hold large amounts of water.  In fact, carrots are mainly composed of water and carotene, which bodes well for your skin and hair.  Have some for a snack throughout the day or use them as a substitute for potato chips for your lunch.
9. Fresh Berries. Berries are in season all year long and winter time is a great time to enjoy some berries.  They are ideal for hydrating your skin and hair because of the ample vitamin C, nutrients, and collagen-building properties in each serving.  Do not skimp on your serving size and aim to have some with fresh Greek yogurt.
10. Sweet Potatoes. The last food on the list is a cold-weather favorite.  Consider eating some fresh sweet potatoes for dinner as part of your skin and hair wellness.  They are loaded with vitamins A and C and are mostly composed of water.

References

[1] http://www.aol.com/article/2015/04/06/9-best-foods-nourish-dry-skin/20503892/
[2] http://www.topinspired.com/top-10-most-hydrating-foods-for-dry-skin-and-hair/
[3] https://thevedix.wordpress.com/2014/08/13/the-most-hydrating-foods-for-dry-skin-hair/