Having trouble growing your hair out or are concerned about hair loss?
We know that we can’t always control all factors that lead to hair loss, thinning, or slow growth, but we know we definitely do have control over most of the contributing factors – through your diet and lifestyle habits!
When is the last time you thought about algae? Or have talked with your girls or guys about gooseberries??
HA! For a lot of you, maybe never!
Well, time to change that… and you’ll see why!
Spirulina
Spirulina is a blue-green algae(cyanobacteria) superfood obtained from primarily two species: Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima. It grows naturally in warm, alkaline fresh water and salt water, as well as cultivated in specific spirulina farms.
This amazing superfood serves as one of the most nutrient-dense vegetarian supplements on the planet! It is taken internally as a dietary supplement and used externally for hair and skin.
Among its numerous health benefits, spirulina contains amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamin A and beta-carotene, all of which greatly aid in the promotion of hair growth, treatments for hair loss, and treatments for dandruff.
Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla is also an incredible nutrient dense food that is extremely versatile. The tree that bears this glorious fruit is commonly used in the ancient Indian medicinal practices of Ayurveda.
Because of it’s potent Vitamin C content, this fruit aids in preventing and fighting numerous health ailments, boosting immune and bodily functions, and our very favorites: promoting hair growth and even prevents the greying of hair!
That’s right. No wonder why the Indian people have been using this fruit in all of its versatility for generations!
Other Berries
Alongside amla, tart cherries have their own multi-beneficial profile which also includes aiding in great hair, skin and immune function through Vitamin C!
We know that if we are nourishing our insides with the proper vital nutrients, our skin and our hair follicles will only benefit, making it prime real estate for a healthy body with healthy hair to thrive.
When consuming, tart cherries can prevent hair loss due to anemia because of its iron content. Tart cherries or tart cherry juice also helps in maintaining healthy hair through its beta-carotene and 17 different antioxidants, including anthocyanins and melatonins.
Blueberries are also powerhouses when it comes to aiding in hair growth by improving oxygenation and circulation of blood flow, particularly to the scalp. These delicious little berries are widely known for their antioxidant content, but also provide essential vitamins A, C, E, and most importantly B complex. B complex vitamins(B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12) support the overall function of hair, skin, and nails.
More on Hair Loss
If you are someone or know of someone who may be concerned about male or female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), you’re not alone!
According to Organic Colour Systems and the American Hair Loss Association,
- Female pattern hair loss usually begins at around the age of 30, but can be earlier. It generally becomes noticeable around the age of 40.
- By the age of 50, 50% of women will experience some degree of hair thinning. In women, the hair becomes thinner all over the head, and the hairline does not recede.
- By 35, 2/3 of men experience some degree of hair loss.
- By the age of 50, about 85% of men have significantly thinner hair, including receding at the temples and a thinning crown.
I will be writing a more in depth look into hair loss and solutions, but in the mean time my best advice would be to follow this DAILY for greatest results:
- Zero in and cut the junk out of your life (crap foods, drinks, shampoos, styling products, etc)
- Add in beneficial superfoods/supplements for hair growth & strength
- Focus on your happiness & releasing stress
- Massage your scalp in small circular motions, preferably with fingers and a stimulating oil treatment
- Use a soft boar brush to brush your scalp and hair, distributing your natural oils for protection
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Make it a goal to enjoy this Superfood Smoothie for Hair Growth at least 3x per week!
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Although there are different forms of amla like there are spirulina, we have found frozen amla chunks for this “Sour Sea Berry” smoothie recipe! The frozen chunks may be one of the easier forms to find if you are not close to India, as the fruit is only in some stores seasonally and won’t last as long.
Amla on its own has quite a unique sour-citrus-type taste! WOO vitamin C!
But don’t worry, this smoothie isn’t too sour since we have natural whole food sweeteners in with the mix that help to balance everything out!
“Sour Sea Berry”
Superfood Smoothie for Hair Growth
Vegan, Vegetarian, Paleo, GF, Dairy-free
time: about 5 min | author: sustainthemane
All organic, local, farm fresh or homemade ingredients wherever possible!
≈ 1 c frozen blueberries or mixed berries
≈ 1/2 c frozen spinach
≈ 1/2 c freshly made almond milk*
≈ 1/4 c almond butter
≈ 1/4 c frozen amla chunks
1 small or medium ripe banana
7 fresh cherries*
1 heaping spoon spirulina powder
1-2 tbl coconut oil
1 tbl chia seeds for topping
1-2 tbl hemp seeds for topping
Optional: +1 or 2 dates if banana isn’t ripe/sweet enough; splash vanilla extract ; ≈ 1 tbl maca powder; water for thinner consistency
- Blend all ingredients except chia seeds & hemp seeds in a nutri-bullet or blender, adding liquid as necessary.
- Top with hemp seeds, chia seeds & an extra cherry! Enjoy!
*substitute handful of almonds + 1/2 c water for almond milk & omit almond butter – or – use coconut milk in place of almond milk; one big squirt of tart cherry concentrate for fresh cherries
Recipe measurements are round about. Use your judgement on taste & additive options.
Spatial Learner: Who really measures smoothies anyway??
Beautiful burgundy hue in the finished blend.
Enjoy!
