Healthy hair does not only have to be attained through specific product or treatment rituals. The foods that we consume play a major role in the way in which African-American hair grows. Much like good health coming from our diet, our mental health and stress levels contribute to the way in which our hair grows, as well as the health of our scalp and skin.

A healthy diet does not always represent what we eat, but rather the amounts in which we eat specific foods. For example, type two diabetes is very common in the African-American community and is a result of consuming high amounts of fat and food that are low in fiber and high in carbohydrates. High blood pressure is also very common in the African-American community, and large intakes of sodium result in high blood pressure. Lastly, deficiencies in the vitamins can result in hair loss and dry skin. This deficiency, in combination with diabetes and high blood pressure, can lead to poor health and essentially poor skin and hair.

Four foods which are extremely beneficial for the hair, scalp, and the overall health of the human body are, salmon, spinach, carrots, and quinoa.

Salmon has a lot of protein and omega three fatty acids. Omega three fatty acids decrease the risk of heart disease, arthritis, and cancer, and assists in ensuring that the hair maintains a shiny and sheen appearance.

Spinach has vitamin A, beta carotene, and folate, which helps to create red blood cells and iron, both of which stimulate hair growth.

Carrots have a high amount of beta carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, and this keeps the skin naturally moist, helps with hair growth, and decreases the dull appearance of damaged hair.

Quinoa contains protein and iron to help repair tissue within the body. Quinoa also helps to maintain good health for the red blood cells.

Through a healthy and moderated diet, with awareness of which foods lead to chronic diseases, it is possible to maintain a stable condition, in order to help the mind, body, and hair. Many health related articles are not geared towards the needs of African-Americans, in terms of hair and overall health, so it is important to acknowledge the needs of the community, in terms of what risks the black community faces, as a result of genetics, history, culture, and environment.