Having healthy hair is something most of us aspire to but don’t necessarily know how to achieve. What so many people don’t realize is that healthy hair is often indicative of our overall physical health, and if you can make good overall changes, you’re likely to see the results reflected in your hair as well.

The following are some of the best things you can do to have naturally healthy, beautiful hair.

Eat Iron and Zinc

Healthy hair really starts from the inside out. If you don’t have a healthy, nutrient-packed diet, you’re not likely to have healthy, lustrous locks either. Two nutrients that are good for growing strong hair follicles are iron and zinc, which can be found in foods like lean red meat as well as lentils and soybeans. Vitamin D can also be beneficial for strong hair growth, and you can get it from sitting in the sun (as long as you’re protecting your skin) or taking a vitamin D supplement.

Protein and Healthy Fats

Also valuable for hair growth is a diet with plenty of lean protein, such as chicken and Omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty fish like salmon can help make sure that your hair stays moisturized, and it’s also great for your skin. If you can’t get enough from the foods you eat, consider a supplement.

Other foods that can contribute to better overall health and hair include almond and other nut butters, as well as Greek yogurt.

Try to Reduce Stress

How you feel can have a huge impact on your entire body, including your hair. In fact, if you’re going through a period of serious stress, you may notice that your hair falls out more while you’re in the shower or brushing it. While you may not be able to alleviate all of your stress, exercising and doing things like yoga can help you manage it more effectively, so it doesn’t take a toll on your health.

Choose the Right Products

A lot of hair health starts inside your body, but there are other factors as well. When you’re choosing styling products, look for high-quality hair care products that don’t have damaging, drying alcohol or toxic ingredients. Choose items that are natural or organic and are moisturizing to prevent dry hair along with damage and breaking.

Protect Your Hair During the Summer

You might already know how damaging heated styling tools can be for your hair, but are you taking precautions against the damage that can occur in the summer? First, sun exposure can lead to hair becoming damaged and dry. It will also fade your color, so you may have to make more trips to the salon. Also, swimming can be incredibly damaging to your hair, so make sure you’re using a protector before going in the sun or jumping in the pool.

If you want enviable locks, start with your general health first. Eat the right foods and take a multivitamin aimed at helping hair growth. Once you’ve managed that, you can start looking at specific ways to protect your hair so that it will thrive and grow.