Using shampoo and conditioners alone will not help to maintain healthy hair. As only the topmost layer of each strand of hair can be affected, there is only so much that treatments can do beyond smoothing the surface texture. Instead, it is healthy diet which will keep your hair in top condition, improving its strength and its shine.

Iron, vitamin C, vitamin A, and calcium can all be found in leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli. These nutrients are important for the production of sebum, the natural oil produced by the scalp which condition the hair and strengthen it. Beans are also an important part of your diet, containing zinc, protein, iron and biotin. Deficiencies in any of these nutrients can lead to dull, brittle hair, and zinc deficiencies can also lead to hair loss.

"Without adequate protein or with low-quality protein, one can experience weak brittle hair, while a profound protein deficiency can result in loss of hair color," states Giancoli, spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association. Eggs in particular are very effective as a treatment source. Zinc and protein can also be found in nuts and wholegrains, both of which are important for your body when producing keratin, which hair is made of. Nuts are a vital source of these proteins, with cashews, brazil nuts, pecans and almonds also known to be a source of omega-3 fatty acids. Brazil nuts and macadamia nuts are also a source of selenium (also present in wholegrains) which are beneficial to your scalp.

As well as an increase in general well-being, hair can be strengthened by the intake of omega fatty acids. "Essential omega-3 fatty acids are needed to support scalp health," says Giancoli. If the scalp is unhealthy, then hair growth will be slowed and hair will be weaker. Particularly recommended is ground flax seed oil, a natural source of omega fatty acids. Unlike omega-3 fatty acids from fish, there is no chance of mercury contamination.

However important vitamins are in maintaining healthy hair, be aware that vitamin supplements marketed to strengthen hair and promote hair growth may do exactly the opposite, as an excessive amount of a particular vitamin can cause hair loss. Instead of these supplements, ensure that your body is recieving these nutrients naturally through your diet.