6 Dietary Culprits Behind Dandruff Development

Many individuals assess their hair's health based on products used, but the internal impact of diet is crucial as well. For instance, dandruff is often blamed on dry scalps or incorrect products, yet the food you consume can trigger those bothersome flakes. Dandruff is associated with Malassezia, a fungus that thrives on scalp oils, producing oleic acid as a by-product. This acid can irritate sensitive skin, prompting increased skin cell turnover and resulting in flakes, itching, and redness. Dietary choices matter significantly; high-sugar, processed foods can lead to inflammation, exacerbating dandruff. Refined sugars, various cheeses, cream, white wine, champagne, and caffeine can exacerbate the condition. Conversely, incorporating B vitamins, zinc, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids can enhance scalp health, providing a pathway to a flake-free future.