Growing our hair, especially beyond shoulder length, is not an easy task. Long, luscious mermaid locks may seem impossible between battling breakage and playing the waiting game. Fast hair growth products promise longer locks with immediate results, but they don't always work as we hope. If you're trying to figure out how to grow your hair faster, it's best to take several steps that will ensure the overall health of your hair. Here's how to boost your hair growth while preventing breakage and damage that keeps long hair from looking shiny and healthy.

The health of your hair can also be a reflection of your overall health. If you're wondering how to keep your hair healthy, a healthy diet will keep your hair healthy from the inside out. Including salmon in your diet can help your hair grow faster with omega-3 fatty acids that keep your scalp healthy. Sweet potatoes are also known as a superfood for hair growth. They are packed with beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A to promote hair growth. You'll also want to stock up on yellow peppers, avocados, oysters, eggs, almonds, and sunflower seeds. If you can't get all the essential vitamins for hair growth through diet, there is always another way.

While it's always best to eat plenty of vegetables, fish and fruits, sometimes our diets aren't perfect. Taking vitamins for hair growth is another way to make your hair grow faster. Biotin, folic acid and vitamin D (especially during winter) are must-haves for those trying to grow thicker hair. See more vitamin suggestions for hair growth here.

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